NFL Notes: Restricted Free Agents, Draft, Falcons, & Steelers

Restricted Free Agents

There are five restricted free agents who have yet to sign their restricted tenders as of Monday, per Howard Balzer:

• Seahawks WR Jermaine Kearse
• Jets DT Damon Harrison
• Browns S Tashaun Gipson 
• Browns NT Ishmaa’ily Kitchen
• Steelers DB Robert Golden

Draft

In a Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel poll of NFL scouts, this year’s inside linebacker prospects were rated: 1) Benardrick McKinney, 2) Denzel Perryman, 3) Eric Kendricks, 4) Stephone Anthony, 5) Paul Dawson, 6) Shaq Thompson, 7) Jordan Hicks, Tied 9) Trey DePriest and Damien Wilson.

• Here’s an interest quote about Washington LB Shaq Thompson from an NFL scout: “They (Husky coaches) were so tired of him they virtually said to him, ‘You’ve got a great shot. It’s probably best for you to go this year. He made a lot of stupid 15-yard penalties. I was surprised (coach) Chris Petersen put up with him.”
• Peter Schrager reports that at least two NFL teams don’t view Oregon DL Arik Armstead as a Top 20 guy.

Falcons

• Vaughn McClure of ESPN mentions that if the Falcons are looking to trade up in this year’s draft, it would likely be for USC DL Leonard Williams.

Steelers

• According to Peter Schrager, the Steelers are likely targeting a pass rusher or defensive back at No. 22.
• Schrager mentions that one surprising name that has been tossed around as a potential option for them is Virginia DE/OLB Eli Harold.