NFC South Notes: Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers, Saints

Buccaneers

Buccaneers HC Dirk Koetter said Thursday that his relationship with WR DeSean Jackson is “fine” despite the report from earlier in the day that there was an exchange between the two over Jackson not practicing with a thumb injury.

“DeSean Jackson is a proven, outstanding player in this league,” Koetter said, via Pro Football Talk. “I’m a coach, he’s a player. I think our relationship is fine.”

Falcons

Regarding the rumors that Falcons OC Steve Sarkisian could be fired after the season, QB Matt Ryan told reporters that Sarkisian has “done a good job” for them, but it’s not something he’s worried about right now.

“I’m not worried about that right now,” Ryan said, via the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “In all honesty, it’s about trying to find a way to get a win and [Steve] Sarkisian has done a good job. He’s put us in a good position to be successful as players. It’s our job to go out there and make the plays. I’m not worried about that right now.”

Panthers

• Panthers S Eric Reid told reporters on Thursday that he’ll be looking for “market value” as a free agent next year after what he considers to be the best year of his career. (Max Henson)
• Reid did add that the Panthers and his agent have exchanged initial “pleasantries.”

Saints

Saints QB Drew Brees said Teddy Bridgewater will play on in Week 17 but did not know how much.

“I’m excited for him,” Brees said, via Nick Underhill of The Advocate. “I think there’s no doubt he’s going to get some playing time. It’s just a matter of how much. He’s the kind of guy who prepares to play every week.”

Bridgewater said that he is always ready to play and is aware his opportunity can come “within a blink of an eye.”

“I never turned it off,” Bridgewater said. “Being in the position that I’m in you always have to stay ready. That’s been my mindset since I arrived here. Approach each day with the same mindset that your opportunity can come within a blink of an eye.”

• Saints LT Terron Armstead said of whether he’ll be ready for the playoffs: “That’s the plan.” (Nick Underhill)