Falcons
- The Falcons traded back into the first round to select Tennessee DE James Pearce Jr. at No. 26, despite concerns about his character and maturity, which led other teams to remove him from their boards; however, Atlanta extensively vetted him.
- An AFC scout expressed confidence in HC Raheem Morris‘ ability to manage Pearce, noting his explosiveness as a player.
- SI.com’s Albert Breer indicated potential paths for a split between the Falcons and QB Kirk Cousins, depending on the Steelers’ decisions or injuries.
Panthers
The Panthers signed LB Mapalo Mwansa through the NFL’s International Player Pathway, having discovered American football through a fellow player, Henry Rowland.
Mwansa, inspired by soccer legend Yaya Touré, developed a passion for football after watching documentaries and joined the Loughborough Students team, drawing comparisons to Eagles DE Nolan Smith Jr..
Saints
- Ross Tucker noted the Saints might have filed a grievance regarding QB Derek Carr‘s salary if he had surgery and remained on injured reserve for 2025, though he is skeptical Carr will stay retired.
- David Carr, Derek’s brother, stated through recent conversations that Derek appears to be done playing and has moved on, suggesting a fresh start for the Saints concerning their salary cap.
