2010 Offseason Breakdown: NFC South Needs
Throughout the month of February, Bump and Run will break down the needs of each NFL team as free agency and the draft approaches. Today, we’re breaking down the NFC South:
Atlanta Falcons: After making the playoffs in Mike Smith’s first season as head coach, the Falcons took a small step back in 2009 (though they did post back-to-back winning seasons for the first time ever). Look for GM Thomas Dimitroff to pursue a playmaker on defense to complement DE John Abraham. On offense, Matty Ice should be able to generate 20-28 points per game with what he’s got. Adding another reliable pass catcher wouldn’t hurt though.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Chris Redman, QB;
Key Restricted Free Agents: Jason Snelling, RB; Jerious Norwood, RB.
Needs: LB, Secondary, #2 WR, RB
Carolina Panthers: It’s all but a lock that DE Julius Peppers will suit up in another NFL uniform next season. While losing that disruptive pass rush hurts, nothing was more painful than to watch Jake Delhomme throw dagger INT’s every other week. His back-up Matt Moore filled in admirably towards the end of last season, but putting your eggs in that basket is too much of a risk. The free agency QB class is thin; it may be time to draft the future. Tough to do without a 1st round pick.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Julius Peppers, DE; Muhsin Muhammad, WR.
Key Restricted Free Agents: Matt Moore, QB; Jeff King, TE.
Needs: QB, DE, S, WR
New Orleans Saints: The Super Bowl champs are still in Mardi Gras mode, but you best believe GM Mickey Loomis is done partying. The Saints’ free agent list is longer than a certain golfer’s mistress resume. Offseason priorities start with taking care of their own, including key defensive veterens such as Darren Sharper, Scott Fujita and Will Smith. A lot of work, yes, but when you have Drew Brees, nothing seems to be too stressful.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Mike Bell, RB; Mark Brunell, QB; Will Smith, DE; Scott Fujita, LB; Darren Sharper, FS.
Key Restricted Free Agents: Pierre Thomas, RB; Lance Moore, WR; Jammal Brown, OT; Roman Harper, SS.
Needs: Secondary, DE, #2 QB, OL
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs have bucks to blow in free agency – who they end up spending them on will go a long way in predicting the future of Raheem Morris. Antonio Bryant’s departure means that Tampa will attempt to land a big name WR this offseason to bail out young Josh Freeman. Needs? You name it, it’s on the list.
Key Restricted Free Agents: Cadillac Williams, RB; Jeremy Trueblood, OT.
Needs: WR, OL, RB, LB, DL
