NFL Training Camp Preview: NFC South
- Posted by marshall
- Sunday, August 2, 2009, 10:00
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This is our exclusive first look at NFL training camp. The 2009 – 2010 season is going to be underway in just a few weeks. Let’s move on to the NFC South.
Location: Atlanta Falcons practice facility, Flowery Branch, Ga.
Key Additions: RB Verron Haynes, LB Mike Peterson, C Brett Romberg.
Key Losses: LB Michael Boley, LB Keith Brooking, DT Rod Coleman, CB Dom Foxworth, OT Wayne Gandy, S Lawyer Milloy, TE Marcus Pollard, OT Todd Weiner.
Outlook: The Falcons are coming off a terrific first season for QB Matt Ryan and head coach Mike Smith. Now the questions are in the secondary where they have to replace CB Domonique Foxworth and S Lawyer Milloy. At corner, Chris Houston mans one side, while Brent Grimes, Von Hutchins, Chevis Jackson and rookies Chris Owens and Williams Middleton could step up at the starting and nickel spot.
At safety, William Moore will likely get the nod along with Erik Coleman, but second-year pro Thomas DeCoud isn’t going to give up that spot without a fight. On the defensive line, Jamaal Anderson had just two sacks in 31 starts so he’ll see less time and Chauncey Davis was more productive in fewer snaps.
Location: Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC
Key Additions: OG Adam Geisinger.
Key Losses: RB Nick Goings, WR D.J. Hackett, WR Mark Jones, CB Ken Lucas, OT Frank Omiyale, DT Darwin Walker.
Outlook: The Panthers and head coach John Fox return 21 of 22 starters from a team that went 12-4, so there really aren’t many questions. On defense, they bring in new coordinator Ron Meeks, who will coach just one starter in Richard Marshall. Rookie Sherrod Martin is expected to take over at nickel back.
Marshall replaces Ken Lucas, who as many people remember, was punched out by Steve Smith last year early in camp. That led to a two-game suspension for Smith, a wonderful talent with a nasty streak. They also re-signed Julius Peppers who now will be joined in the end rotation by Everette Brown. On offense, Carolina is sticking with quarterback Jake Delhomme, depsite a horrific outing in the playoffs against Arizona.
Location: Saints Practice Facility, Metarie, La.
Key Additions: DT Rod Coleman, FB Heath Evans, S Pierson Prioleau, S Darren Sharper.
Key Losses: FS Josh Bullocks, RB Deuce McAllister, WR David Patten, DT Hollis Thomas.
Outlook: The Saints can score some points, but they have to find ways of stopping people. New defensive coordinator Gregg Williams takes over the defense and is getting paid a mint to improve this defense. However, after struggles in Washington and Jacksonville, Williams showed he couldn’t do it without talent. The Saints do have some talent, but they have some issues up front as starting defensive ends Will Smith and Charles Grant will be suspended the first four games.
The secondary has been a major concern as first-round pick Malcolm Jenkins will take over at one corner spot. Tracy Porter showed some promise last year in his rookie season before suffering an injury. On offense, the Saints have to replace all-time leading rusher Deuce McAllister and Aaron Stecker. Reggie Bush will start, but can he handle the load after missing 10 games over the last two seasons? Pierre Thomas is a capable backup who can start if needed.
Location: One Buccaneer Place, Tampa, Fla.
Key Additions: LB Angelo Crowell, QB Byron Leftwich, K Mike Nugent, RB Derrick Ward, TE Kellen Winslow.
Key Losses: LB Derrick Brooks, CB Phillip Buchanon, RB Warrick Dunn, WR Joey Galloway, QB Jeff Garcia, WR Ike Hilliard, LB Cato June, TE Alex Smith.
Outlook: The Bucs will have new leadership at the quarterback and head coaching position this training camp. First-year head coach Raheem Morris has to decide on rookie QB Josh Freeman from Kansas State or veterans Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich. They will probably go with one of the veterans, though it would be nice if they can establish some leaders at receiver and running back. Derrick Ward takes over as the starter and finally gets a chance to be a full-time back.
At receiver, Antonio Bryant is solid, but they need Michael Clayton to be a more productive starter. The Bucs released Derrick Brooks, after 14 seasons and will replace him with former strong safety Jermaine Phillips or Quincy Black. Sabby Piscitelli will move to Phillips old spot at strong safety. At cornerback, Ronde Barber is aging and could end up at nickel. They also need DE Gaines Adams to step up and play to his potential.
About the Author
marshall has written 2016 stories on this site.
