NFL Notes: Buccaneers, Cowboys, Eagles, Jaguars

Buccaneers

• Greg Auman expects Buccaneers RB Jacquizz Rodgers to be the team’s primary ballcarrier through the first three weeks of the season, while Charles Sims plays a “big role” as the No. 2 back and second-year RB Peyton Barber “likely” operating as the team’s No. 3 option.

Cowboys

Cowboys executive Stephen Jones said he is hopeful that the team is making progress with RG Zack Martin‘s contract situation.

“Hopefully we’re making some progress, but those things, you can’t really comment on them until they’re either done or not done,” said Jones, via Jon Machota of the Dallas Morning News. “Obviously the goal for both sides has been to be done with everything by the end of the season.”

• Cowboys LB Anthony Hitchens will not require surgery after an MRI revealed no ligament damage in his knee. (Cowboys’ official site)
• Hitchens is still expected to have an eight-week timetable for recovery from a tibia plateau fracture, and the Cowboys are “hopeful” that Hitchens will return before their Week 6 bye.

Eagles

• Zach Berman of The Inquirer does not think the Eagles are set at running back and should consider signing a free agent following roster cuts.
• Berman mentions Redskins RB Matt Jones as a potential player to keep an eye on, should he be released from Washington.
• As for the running backs currently on Philadelphia’s roster, Berman expects Darren Sproles to receive more playing time than LeGarrette Blount.
• Berman does not rule out the Eagles trading ILB Mychal Kendricks, considering that he has been on the trade block for the past two years. Berman believes Kendricks would cost at least an “early Day 3 pick” in the NFL Draft.
• Berman does not think the Eagles are considering signing free agent QB Colin Kaepernick, considering that backup QB Matt McGloin has experience with QBs coach John DeFilippo.

Jaguars

• Mike Kaye of First Coast News writes that second-year QB Brandon Allen is in “prime position” to secure a roster spot with a “standout performance” in their preseason finale on Thursday.
• Kaye admits that the Jaguars have other roster needs that could lead to them keeping just two quarterbacks, but it’s unlikely for Allen to pass through waivers unclaimed, which could prompt the team to retain him with a good showing tonight.