NFL

The Falcons need an upgrade on Will Svitek, and Sam Baker is in danger of being released. San Diego is expected to cut McNeill next month in order to save $10 million in cap space. McNeill would have no trouble beating out Svitek in training camp, but makes for a risky signing due to medical concerns.

A sixth-round pick of the Packers last year, Elmore was cut following a disappointing training camp. An undrafted free agent, McDaniel was waived by the Saints before final cuts.

At its core, Lombardi's report is no different than those of colleague Jason La Canfora or beat writer Kevin Acee. The Bolts aren't inclined to use the franchise tag, but they plan to make a competitive offer once Jackson hits the open market. At that point, though, GM A.J. Smith is likely to be outbid by a more desperate franchise. Lombardi expects V-Jax to land a contract similar to the five-year, $50 million deal he pushed for two years ago.

"You know it's a business and they might not want to go that same direction," Tolbert added. The Union-Tribune San Diego expects Tolbert to hit the market. The Chargers may approach his free agency similar to Vincent Jackson's, hoping to stay in the mix, but ultimately outbid by a more desperate team.

Whereas the Chargers acknowledge the necessity of overpaying to keep Eric Weddle last offseason, they reportedly believe this year's wide receiver market is "extremely deep." The Bolts insist they want to be in the V-Jax mix, but they're expected to be outbid "in the first few days of free agency." Jackson will be asking for at least $10 million a year as the top receiver available. Potential suitors include the Rams, 49ers, Redskins, Bucs, Bears, Jaguars, and perhaps the Vikings or Eagles (accompanying a DeSean Jackson trade).

V-Jax is seen as a substantial risk in some circles due to his pair of DUIs 2-3 years ago. Unlike the previous Rams regime, Miklasz believes Jeff Fisher "isn't much interested in holding all 53 roster spots for angels." The Rams reportedly made an offer for Jackson two years ago, only to pull out due to the Chargers' trade demands. A January report suggested the Bolts aren't "inclined" to franchise Jackson, but that could change if long-term talks fall apart.

The Union-Tribune San Diego has reported the Chargers don't plan to use the franchise tag on V-Jax. The sides are open to a long-term deal, but Jackson is set to break the bank on the open market. "There's too many teams in need of a wide receiver," explained LaCanfora. "Somebody's going to give him big bucks." LaCanfora lists the 49ers, Rams, and Bucs as three potential landing spots.