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NFC West Notebook: Irvin wants to play for Falcons; Jackson wants to retire as a Ram

Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

Every Friday, theScore's NFL editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NFC West Notebook.

Seattle Seahawks

Irvin says he's playing for Falcons in 2016. Bruce Irvin is furious with the Seahawks, ostensibly for not exercising his fifth-year option. Irvin said he wants to play for the Falcons after the upcoming season ends, where he'd be reunited with former Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. The 27-year-old was also born in Atlanta.

Clark's selection alienating some fans. The Seahawks took a calculated risk by selecting Frank Clark in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Clark was dismissed from Michigan's team for a domestic violence incident and some fans are concerned about his off-field behavior.

Baldwin provides glowing review for Graham. Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin raved about the addition of star tight end Jimmy Graham to the lineup. Baldwin said that Graham would open up space for superstar running back Marshawn Lynch.

Arizona Cardinals

Arians' nephew speaks about playing for uncle. Bruce Arians signed his nephew Trevor Harman to the club. Harman broke a number of school records at Shippensburg University and Arians said he's not giving his nephew any preferential treatment.

Ellington unfazed by Johnson's presence. The Arizona Cardinals drafted David Johnson in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft, but incumbent starter Andre Ellington isn't worried about his roster spot. Ellington said Johnson would help give some rest and keep the tempo of the offense high.

Peterson expresses confidence in cornerback group. Although he struggled throughout the 2014 season, Patrick Peterson said he's very confident in the team's cornerback group. Peterson cited Jerraud Powers and Justin Bethel's return as a major reason why.

San Francisco 49ers

Baalke expects answer from Smith soon. San Francisco 49ers defensive end Justin Smith hasn't committed to the 2015 season, but general manager Trent Baalke is confident they'll get a decision from the 35-year-old soon. Smith has recorded 87 career sacks and was named to five consecutive Pro Bowls from 2009 to 2013.

Kaepernick, Bush developing rapport. Colin Kaepernick and the newly acquired Reggie Bush are hitting it off in team workouts, according to Baalke. Bush will be expected to carry some of the load that was left vacant by the departed Frank Gore.

49ers, Broncos holding joint practices. The 49ers and Denver Broncos will hold joint practices ahead of their Aug. 29 exhibition game. San Francisco held joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens last season without incident.

St. Louis Rams

Jackson wants to retire as a Ram. Former St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson wants to retire as a member of the club. Currently a free agent, Jackson is seeking a Super Bowl contender to join before he hangs up his cleats.

Gurley could become vintage back. Although many believe that running backs are a low-value proposition in relation to the draft, the Rams selected Todd Gurley 10th overall. Gurley is expected to become a workhorse back reminiscent of Steven Jackson, as detailed by ESPN's Nick Wagoner.

City, state to contribute $250M to keep Rams. The city of St. Louis and state of Missouri will contribute $250 million in efforts to keep the team in its current place. It was originally reported that both governmental wings would contribute $350 million.

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