NFC South Notes: Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers

Buccaneers

Buccaneers RBs coach Todd McNair says they’re hoping to restore former second-round RB Ronald Jones’ confidence after a disappointing rookie season. 

“Rojo had 23 carries on the season and 13 of those he got hit at or behind the line of scrimmage,” McNair said, via the Tampa Bay Times. “So the biggest thing with him is restoring his confidence. I think once we start getting him to the second level clean. You know, a guy comes out of college, USC is a high-profile program. A second round pick and he doesn’t have a lot of success. I’ve seen it happen before and his confidence goes way down. With him it’s baby steps and working our approach.”

Falcons

• The Atlanta Falcons announced Friday that they’ve named longtime scout Shepley Heard director of pro personnel.
• The Falcons also hired former Chiefs assistant General Manager Joel Collier as a national scout.

Panthers

Panthers QB Cam Newton was asked about the addition of third-round QB Will Grier. 

“A lot of people, the natural, . . . would think that I feel intimidated,” Newton said, per Josh Sims. “And that’s not the case here.

“I reached out to Will, and I actually saw him play in high school with him being in Charlotte. And I’m just excited. Like I said, for him to come on a team that I know he possesses a rare talent, and I’m excited. . . . It’s my job to put myself and my team in the best situation, and get everybody ready, . . . I want to make sure that I’m [the] best teammate and my best self for everyone.”