Panthers
Panthers TE Greg Olsen set an NFL record with three straight 1,000 yard seasons from 2014-2016 — the first time a tight end had ever accomplished that feat. The past two years have been hard for Olsen, and he wants to remind people “it wasn’t too long ago that I was as good as anybody,” even if he doesn’t reach his former level of production.
“We have a lot more guys now, so it’s just a different offense. And I think that’s good for everybody,” Olsen said via Max Henson of the official team website. “There are a lot of guys where the ball can go. We didn’t have Christian (McCaffrey). It’s just different. And I’m totally cool with that. This is not about me chasing production.”
- The Athletic’s Joe Person says the Panthers remain confident in Kyle Allen as their backup quarterback, largely based on his performance in Week 17 against the Saints last year.
- Though Allen hasn’t been great in preseason action, the poise he showed in his performance at the end of 2018 continues to stand out to HC Ron Rivera: “His decision-making process has been good. He just hasn’t thrown a good ball at times. He’s quick on his feet. He’s shown some cool under pressure in the past, and I think that’s one of the things that really weighs in his favor.”
- Person adds Panthers third-round QB Will Grier‘s roster spot remains secure despite an unimpressive preseason. Grier has the backing of Rivera: “I just think he’s a guy that over time (will develop). We’ve just got to continue to develop him, continue to work with him. … I’m very pleased with where he is right now. He’s gonna help us someday.”
Rams
Rams QB Jared Goff and CB Marcus Peters are both eligible for new contracts this year. Peters is entering the final year of his rookie deal in 2019, while Goff is still under team control through 2020 with the fifth-year option. Los Angeles could potentially save some money by doing a Goff extension early, but so far there’s no indication negotiations are proceeding with either player.
“I think right now we’ve been so busy just kind of handling training camp, things like that,” Rams HC Sean McVay said via Pro Football Talk. “Those are two very important players to us as we move forward this season. That’s kind of where we’re at right now with that.”
Seahawks
- ESPN’s Brady Henderson reports Seahawks DE Ezekiel Ansah practiced for the first time with the team and is on track to play in Seattle’s season opener.
- Seahawks HC Pete Carroll said Ansah, who has been participating in walkthroughs as he rehabbed his shoulder, looked good: “He moved around fine. … He’ll do more tomorrow. … We were hoping he would make it before the final week, which he did.” (Curtis Crabtree)
- The Seahawks have not been given permission yet to discuss a trade with Texans LB Jadeveon Clowney. The Dolphins have, however. (Bob Condotta)
- Seahawks second-round WR D.K. Metcalf is “moving around this week” with the hopes of a possible Week 1 return, per Carroll. (John Boyle)
- Seahawks WR David Moore will avoid injured reserve with a non-displaced fracture in his humerus (shoulder) and Carroll hopes for a “real quick recovery.” (Boyle)
- Carroll told reporters G Mike Iupati is “in a race” to be ready by Week 1 and it will be close. (Crabtree)
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