NFL Notes: Colts, Packers, Redskins

Colts

• Kevin Bowen of Colts.com writes that running back will be a need for the team again in 2018, but it shouldn’t be above linebacker on their priority list.
• In regards to a new deal for CB Vontae Davis, Bowen expects him to be targeting what while likely end up being his final big-money deal in free agency. However, he expects the Colts to wait and see how he looks this year before considering an extension.
• According to Bowen, all is quiet between the Colts and free agent LB Zach Orr following his visit to the team a few weeks back. Given that it’s been two weeks since he met with the Colts, Bowen gets the impression that a deal between the two parties likely is not happening.
• Bowen still expects veteran Scott Tolzien to open the season as the Colts’ backup quarterback.

Packers

Last week, former Packers WR Greg Jennings put the blame on HC Mike McCarthy for not winning more Super Bowls since their 2010 championship.

“I’m just going to flat out say it: If we had a lead, our issue wasn’t the defense — our issue was Mike McCarthy,” Jennings said Wednesday on Fox Sports. “(McCarthy) would cuff us.”

However, an AFC defensive assistant who spoke with Bucky Brooks of NFL.com isn’t buying this.

“Their system has been the same for years,” the defensive assistant said. “But they do a great job of getting guys open and creating big plays. Of course, it helps to have No. 12 (Rodgers), but McCarthy does a good job of stressing the defense with his personnel.“

A separate defensive coach who spoke to Brooks referred to McCarthy as a “stone-cold killer” and said he has a tremendous feel play calling and when to dial it up against the defense.

Redskins

An NFC pro scouting director tells Bucky Brooks of NFL.com that he views Redskins QB Kirk Cousins as a “solid starter capable of winning games” but not a difference maker.

“He is what he is,” the scouting director said. “He is a solid starter capable of winning games when surrounded by supreme talent in that system, but I don’t think he is a difference maker. … I would have a tough time paying $25 million for a guy that I don’t believe can carry us to the Super Bowl.”