NFL Notes: 49ers, Colts, Eagles, & Redskins

49ers

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee takes a look at the fallout for the 49ers’ decision to release OLB Aldon Smith following his latest arrest and how this could affect the team moving forward.

• Barrows writes that San Francisco was already building a nest egg in terms of cap space that could be used next year, but there really isn’t many worthy players on their roster worth addressing with a big-money deal now that Smith is gone.
• Barrows writes that they could use some of it on free agent G Evan Mathis to improve their offensive line, but this doesn’t fit with their draft and develop strategy.
• It’s worth mentioning that WR Anquan Boldin, TE Vernon Davis, OL Alex Boone and NT Ian Williams are entering the final years on their respective contracts and could be addressed next year.
• Barrows seems to think locking up DL Quinton Dial could make sense for the 49ers.
• OLB Corey Lemonier has a much better opportunity to make the team now that Smith is no longer in the picture, according to Barrows.

Colts

• Colts re-signed CB Eric Patterson.

Eagles

• Eagles sixth-round CB JaCorey Shepherd was carted off the field at practice Sunday after a collision with RB Darren Sproles.
• Reuben Frank of CSN Philly.com mentions that there’s currently no immediate word from the Eagles on the nature or extent of the injury.

Redskins

• The Redskins released their latest depth chart on Sunday, which has Niles Paul as the team’s No. 1 tight end ahead of Jordan Reed.
• Even though Paul is ahead of Reed on the depth chart, John Keim still expects Reed to play a “heavy role” in team’s passing game this season.
• Washington also has Morgan Moses as their starting right tackle and first-round pick Brandon Scherff as their right guard. (John Keim)