*Jason Babin’s release in Philadelphia wasn’t so much about Babin’s ability as much as it was about where the Eagles are as an organization. Ownership and management, from what we’ve been told, want Andy Reid to start using more young players so the team can get a good feel going into 2013. Getting rid of Babin was the only way defensive line coach Jim Washburn was going to play Vinny Curry more. The rebuilding project in Philadelphia starts now.

*Rolondo McClain’s hints that he soon will be leaving Oakland had personnel men all across the league watching tape of the Raiders defense—and not liking what they’ve seen from McClain. As the eighth overall pick in the 2010 draft, McClain was highly regarded for his physical style, instincts and play speed. But scouts aren’t seeing that now. They say he has not attacked blocks well, plays slow, is exposed in space and is marginal in coverage. One questioned if McClain might be going through the motions. “Looks like he’s lost his edge,” he said.

*The word around the NFL is former Bears general manager Jerry Angelo is getting some play as a potential general manager or consultant and is likely to get back in the game in 2013. The Bears’ success this year reflects well on him, as Angelo constructed the roster, hired Lovie Smith and most of the front office. What’s more, he oversaw a team that had sustained success.

*The firing of Titans offensive coordinator Chris Palmer caught some by surprise only because it happened with five weeks remaining in the season. Some suspected it might happen about a month ago, but it’s late in the season for a change. The buzz from Tennessee is head coach Mike Munchak hopes that new coordinator Dwight Loggains will be able to tailor the offense more around the personnel, and specifically quarterback Jake Locker. There is a feeling Locker was not allowed to play to his strengths.