Time for a quick cruise through the top headlines from around the division:

ATLANTA FALCONS

Starting cornerbacks Asante Samuel (shoulder) and Dunta Robinson (illness) did not participate in Tuesday’s practice. That creates some reason to worry with the New Orleans Saints coming to town Thursday night. Robert McClain has done pretty well as the nickelback. But, if he’s moved into the starting lineup, the Falcons would have to rely on Christopher Owens and Dominique Franks.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Defensive tackle Ron Edwards was placed on injured reserve with a dislocated elbow. This probably signals the end of Edwards’ time with the Panthers. He was a big free-agent signing last year but got hurt in the preseason and missed all of last season. The Panthers will need to trim salary-cap room after the season and Edwards is a prime candidate to be released. Coach Ron Rivera also said running back Jonathan Stewart could miss some time with an ankle injury. That would mean more carries for DeAngelo Williams.

If you’re a Carolina fan, you probably already are looking ahead to next year’s draft. In this Insider post, Steve Muench takes a look at Carolina’s needs. The item above provides a big hint about one area that’s been a problem spot for a long time. But Muench also addresses wide receiver and safety.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Rookie right tackle Bryce Harris was placed on injured reserve after breaking a bone in his leg in his first career star. Harris was playing because of injuries to Zach Strief and Charles Brown. Interim coach Joe Vitt expressed optimism that Strief, who practiced on a limited basis Tuesday, will be able to return for Thursday night’s game with Atlanta. If Strief isn’t ready, the Saints would have to turn to the recently-signed William Robinson.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

With cornerback Eric Wright serving a four-game suspension for using Adderall, Mark Cook has a relevant story with an agent’s perspective on why so many players are using the prescription drug.

The Bucs also just announced they have placed safety Cody Grimm and offensive tackle Jeremy Trueblood on injured reserve.