NFL Notes: Extensions, Dolphins, Falcons, Titans

Extensions

• Dan Graziano mentions that Steelers DL Stephon Tuitt could be a candidate for the team’s franchise tag next year.
• Graziano writes that while Bears LT Charles Leno is unlikely to secure a top-of-the-market salary as part of a long-term deal, he could end up setting the expectation floor for guys at the top.
• According to Graziano, it’s possible that the negotiations between the Giants and either G Justin Push or C Weston Richburg could impact the other. Graziano expects Richburg to secure a sizable raise from the $1.085 million he’s making in 2017.

Dolphins

Dolphins offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen believes veteran backup QB Matt Moore could start for a “bunch of teams.”

“He could start for a bunch of teams,” Christensen said, via Hal Habib of the Palm Beach Post.

Falcons

• Dan Graziano believes Falcons RB Devonta Freeman could up topping the $8.01 million per year being paid to Bills RB LeSean McCoy once he’s agreed to a new contract with Atlanta.
• It’s unlikely that Freeman and the Falcons will agree to anything before the July 17 deadline for team’s to negotiate with franchise players, as this will allow him to have an idea of what the top salary for the running back position will be, depending on what happens between the Steelers and Le’Veon Bell.
• The Falcons have maintained that they’re “confident” that a deal with Freeman will get done soon. (NFLTR)

Titans

• ESPN’s Dan Graziano writes that the Titans are clearly prioritizing their young offensive line, which means LT Taylor Lewan could be in a position to secure a top-of-market tackle deal close to Trent Williams‘ $13.2 million per year.
• The Titans picked up Lewan’s fifth-year option will run them $9.341 million for the 2018 season, so they have some time to get this contract in place.
• If Tennessee waits too long, they will have to pay both Lewan and QB Marcus Mariota around the same time, which means there should be an incentive to get Lewan taken care sooner than later.