NFC Notes: Cowboys, Saints, & Vikings

Cowboys

Cowboys HC Jason Garrett mentioned that the “sky is the limit” for fourth-year DT Tyrone Crawford.

“He’s one of those players on the team that really kind of sets the pace for everyone,” Garrett said, via the Dallas Morning News. “He’s a great practice player, he plays hard in the games, and I think he’s one of those guys that you point to as a coach and say, ‘Play the way he plays.’”

Saints

Both Saints HC Sean Payton and QB Drew Brees mentioned that they expect big things from WR Nick Toon in 2015.

“We saw at times last year in practice, even though he’s not receiving reps in the games, certainly we’ve seen his progression, he understands the system well and he’s working hard,” Payton said, via the New Orleans Advocate. “I think the key is just getting snaps, but I think we’ll see his snaps go way up.”

“I felt like he made the most of it, we saw glimpses,” Brees said. “We’ve had the ability to maneuver him around and give him more opportunities that way, and he’s been able to handle it very well. So I’m excited for Nick Toon. He’s got a great opportunity. I think there’s a great fit for him.”

Vikings

• Tom Pelissero reports that the Vikings have hired Dr. Chris Larson, one of the nation’s leading hip surgeons, as their new head team physician.
• Pelissero adds that Minnesota also hired Drs. Chris Coetzee (foot/ankle) and Greg Lervick (shoulder/elbow).