NFC Rumors: Falcons, Lions, Panthers

Falcons

• According to Vaughn McClure, the Falcons have “strong interest” in Oklahoma OL Cody Ford.
• McClure reports that the Falcons and franchise DT Grady Jarrett are a “long ways away” from a deal, given that some believe he’s looking for Aaron Donald money ($22.5 million per year). 
• McClure tosses out Kevin Pamphile as a possible free agent target for Atlanta, given that he played in Dirk Koetter’s system in Tampa Bay.
• According to McClure, a longshot but an intriguing option to replace Tevin Coleman for the Falcons could be Browns RB Duke Johnson.
• McClure mentions that it won’t be surprising if two unnamed Falcons end up retiring this offseason.

Lions

• Peter King finds it curious that the Lions were among the 10 teams to meet with Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray at the combine.
• Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that the Lions are not tending an offer to restricted free agent DL Kerry Hyder, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Panthers

• According to Jason La Canfora, the Panthers have discussed a possible role for former Patriots character coach Jack Easterby.