Inside the NFC.(NFL)

With CBs Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble on board, PANTHERS free-agent pickup Reggie Howard (Dolphins) isn't needed as a starter, but he can be effective as a third or fourth corner and a special teams performer. Howard doesn't have enough speed to match up with top receivers, but he's smart and has played in a similar system.... The BEARS' defense was dealt a big blow with the news DT Tank Johnson (torn quadriceps) will be out four to six months. Many believed Johnson would have a good shot at supplanting Ian Scott as a starter; now Johnson could miss almost a quarter of the season. With Johnson out, the team likely will hold on to DE Michael Haynes and try him at tackle. ... The EAGLES made a great move in re-signing RT Jon Runyan. At 32, he's still very solid in the running game and as a pass protector, and his veteran presence likely will benefit some of the team's young linemen.... DL DeQuincy Scott (Chargers) has some experience at tackle, but the VIKINGS will play him at end as an edge rusher on third downs. His arrival provides insurance as DE Kenechi Udeze recovers from knee surgery.... The PACKERS will throw slants and crosses to WR Rod Gardner and give him an opportunity to use his size (6-2, 213) and strength to break tackles. Gardner has trouble releasing at the line, but that's not a big hindrance on short routes.... 49ERS S Ben Emanuel, who started seven games in place of SS Tony Parrish (leg) as a rookie last season, might get playing time at free safety this season. Emanuel has the size (6-2, 213), tackling skills and aggressiveness to be a presence in run support. Despite his inexperience, he rarely is beaten deep, and his understanding of angles usually puts him in good position to make plays on the ball. ... FALCONS CB Jason Webster, 28, likely will begin the season as a starter, although he would be more effective in a limited role as a nickel or dime back. The team wants to use a second- or third-round pick to fortify the secondary, and Webster could lend his expertise to a rookie learning the position.... Signing Nate Burleson (Vikings) improves the SEAHAWKS' speed at wide receiver, a position that had grown thin because of Joe Jurevicius' departure. Burleson's arrival also gives the team some insurance--WR Darrell Jackson is expected to be sidelined until training camp after surgery on his right knee.... BUCCANEERS coach Jon Gruden calls WRs Larry Brackins, J.R. Russell and Paris Warren the Triplets and says he'll get them a lot of work early in exhibition games so he can see how they react to playing against top-level defensive talent. All three are raw talents who were drafted last year. Gruden believes Warren is the most advanced of the group.... The SAINTS ...