NFC Notes: Panthers, Redskins, Saints

Panthers

• According to CBS Sports’ Joel Corry, because Panthers QB Kyle Allen wasn’t signed to the active roster until late last season, he has the same number of accrued seasons as this year’s rookie class. 
• Allen will be an exclusive rights free agent following this season and won’t become a restricted free agent until 2022. 
• Panthers signed OL Matt Kaskey to their practice squad. (NFLTR)
• Panthers released OL Rishard Cook from their practice squad.

Redskins

Despite starting the game in a 28-0 hole, the Redskins had a chance to crawl back into scoring position down 28-15 in the fourth quarter. However, RB Adrian Peterson couldn’t convert on third and one and QB Case Keenum fumbled on the next play to end Washington’s chances of making it a one-score game. Redskins HC Jay Gruden said, “We called our short-yardage play and AP couldn’t get a yard.”

“I have to be better in certain situations,” Peterson added via Pro Football Talk. “The one that stands out the most to me, that third-and-one. Just staying true, keeping front side. Cramming for the first down. I saw the flow [of the defense] and decided to take it backside and kinda got tripped up on [an offensive lineman]’s feet and I thought I got the first down. Me, that’s a game-changer, first down, new set of downs, seven minutes to go. [That] would have put us in position to score seven, now we’re down six with six minutes to go. So, that’s huge when you think about that. And think about how the game went in the first half and leading up to that point and not being able to execute.”

• According to NBC Sports’ JP Finlay, Redskins QB Colt McCoy has made a lot of progress and could be healthy next week. 
• McCoy has been working his way back from a broken leg suffered late last season. However, he’d have to show “a lot” to be able to play, per Gruden. (Finlay)
• Despite five turnovers from Keenum Monday night, Gruden said he’s not considering a change at quarterback: “Case has the tools to become a very efficient quarterback in this offense.” (Mike Garafolo)
• Gruden told reporters he doesn’t feel like he’s coaching for his job week to week and doesn’t anticipate making any changes to the coaching staff. (Finlay)
• Redskins TE Jordan Reed has seen multiple specialists as he continues to miss time with a concussion. Gruden added the team is trying to see how it can help make him comfortable if or when he returns. (John Keim)

Saints

• According to the Athletic’s Nick Underhill, Saints DT Sheldon Rankins has a chance to return this week but more than likely will make his 2019 debut in either Week 5 or 6. 
• Rankins tore his Achilles during the playoffs earlier this year.