NFL Notes: Giants, Jets, Lions, Redskins

Giants

Giants RBs coach Craig Johnson mentioned that they believe Paul Perkins can be a three-down running back for them based on what he’s shown.

“Well, what he’s shown is … in our system you have to have three phases: You have to be able to run the ball. He was an effective runner last year,” Johnson said, via Jordan Raanan of ESPN. “You have to be able to catch the ball. He did a good job in that. And you have to be able to block people, because they are going to try you out. He probably improved the most in that situation. Guys were going to test him out to see if they were going to get to the quarterback. He held up very good in protection and he’s continuing to do that.

“If you can do that, that allows you to be a guy that it’s possible to stay on the field all three downs.”

Jets

• Jets WR Eric Decker, who is on the trade block and could be released, announced a farewell to fans in New York: “I wish we would of accomplished more for you but I sincerely appreciate the support through all the ups and downs!”

Lions

• Michael Rothstein of ESPN writes that the Lions adding WR Eric Decker would make a lot of sense for both parties.
• Rothstein points out that Decker worked with Lions OC Jim Bob Cooter while they were both in Denver.
• Detroit could use a taller receiver and a good red-zone option and can offer Decker a chance to play in a productive offense.
• Rothstein admits that salary could be an issue in regards to adding Decker.

Redskins

According to Redskins CB Josh Norman, last year was “by far for me that was the best season I had.”

Norman explained that this stems from the fact that he displayed his versatility last season, despite some who said he was just a system player.

“When I came over from where I was at, they thought I was a system guy,” Norman said, via John Keim of ESPN. “Got that a lot. I used to chuckle and laugh at it like, ‘Wow, you guys must really hate me for some reason but that’s OK.’

“Last year was the year I could stand on my own and say, ‘OK, I can play whatever you want me to play, coach, put me in,” Norman added. “I can go in nickel. I can come off the edge. I can have a sack or a big play, smack a running back in the backfield. Whatever you need me to do. I can be the hammer. I can be the force. I did that on the outside as well.”