SB Nation - Ryne Robinson

Giants Defeat Panthers 23-17; Quick Hits

Jaxon — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 04:15:08 -0000

More photos » by Bill Kostroun - AP

The Panthers fell to the Giants in a preseason game and the best I can say is we didn't appear to suffer any injuries that I could tell. Both the starting offensive and defensive units were less than impressive. The offense could not move the ball and the defense could not stop the run. I guess that's about my worst case scenario (barring a major injury). Sure its the preseason so I'm not going to get too worked up about it. But if I put my rose-colored glasses on here's the positive stuff from the first teams:

RB DeAngelo Williams looked good and in top form
TE Gary Barnidge played well, showed good hands and quicks for a TE

Pictured: Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw ran wide over the Panthers defense

That's about all that comes to mind positive-wise from the first teams. Did I miss anything? The back-up units on the other hand had several notable players. Let's start with the offense:

RB Mike Goodson was very impressive. Aside from his two fumbles he showed great cut back ability and a nose for the end zone. The Panthers have something here but I don't think I liked him at KR. He stutter-stepped too much to be effective.
QB Hunter Cantwell delivered a late TD drive after the previous two back-ups McCown and Moore were inconsistent. The kid has a gun for an arm for sure and showed nice poise with a 20 yard scramble.
With a few exceptions (dumb penalties) the second unit offensive line did a good job picking up the Giants stunts
WR Jason Chery had a nice catch and run for a TD from Cantwell

The defense had a few bright spots:

LB James Anderson blocked a punt for a safety
S Quinton Teal got an INT with a nice break on the ball (which I predicted..har)
LB's Jeremy Leman had 8 tackles and Mortty Ivy 7. Leman looked expecially quick in support of the run
DT Marlon Favorite looked active and fairly stout at the point of attack
DE Everette Brown struggled early but got 2 sacks when the competition lessened
CB Sherrod Martin played some tight coverage though he wasn't always successful at stopping the play

Special Teams:

Though the kick return game was nothing special I thought Ryne Robinson showed the most confidence catching the ball. WR Larry Beavers could still make a run at it but it appears to be Robinsons to lose

One other positive is that the game didn;t go into overtime. There's certainly plenty of negative things to point out but we have the rest of the week to discuss that. What other positives did we have?

Poll

Who was the Panthers MVP of the Giants preseason game?

RB Mike Goodson

79 votes

QB Hunter Cantwell

68 votes

S Quinton Teal

12 votes

LB Jeremy Leman

85 votes

LB James Anderson

30 votes

LB Mortty Ivy

10 votes

Other

14 votes

298 votes | Poll has closed

Panthers Release Depth Chart with a Few Surprises

Jaxon — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:20:30 -0000

Panthers.com has now posted a depth chart and it has a few surprises worth discussing. I agree it doesn't mean too much at this point but I think it does reflect some things we have already seen in Training Camp. Let's start with the offense:

Offense:

WR1 — Steve Smith, Ryne Robinson, Jason Carter, Kevin McMahan
LT — Jordan Gross, Patrick Brown, Mackenzy Bernadeau
LG — Travelle Wharton, Jonathan Palmer, C.J. Davis
C — Ryan Kalil, Justin Geisinger, Mackenzy Bernadeau, Keith Gray
RG — Keydrick Vincent, Duke Robinson, Justin Geisinger
RT — Jeff Otah, Geoff Schwartz, Gerald Cadogan, Garry Williams
TE — Jeff King, Gary Barnidge, Dante Rosario, Andrew Davie
WR2 — Muhsin Muhammad, Dwayne Jarrett, Kenneth Moore, Marcus Monk
QB — Jake Delhomme, Josh McCown, Matt Moore, Hunter Cantwell
FB — Brad Hoover, Tony Fiammetta
RB — DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Mike Goodson, Decori Birmingham

In spite of the high praise sent his way in TC C/G Mackenzy Bernadeau is still 3rd string at center and is not listed at guard anywhere. He is instead listed 3rd string at LT (huh?). Justin Geisinger is #2 at center and has obviously improved his stock given he can play multiple positions.
T Gerald Cadogan is listed as 3rd string RT behind Geoff Schwartz. Patrick Brown is slated as Jordan Gross back-up on the left side where I thought Cadogan would compete. This doesn't bode well for Cadogan.
TE Gary Barnidge has passed Dante Rosario (no surprise there)
WR Ryne Robinson remains ahead of Jason Carter.

Defense:

LDE — Tyler Brayton, Charles Johnson, Everette Brown
LDT — Nick Hayden, Marlon Favorite, Lonnie Harvey, George Hypolite
RDT — Damione Lewis, Corvey Irvin, Lorenzo Williams
RDE — Julius Peppers, Everette Brown, Hilee Taylor, Casper Brinkley
OLB1 — Na’il Diggs, James Anderson , Landon Johnson, Kelvin Smith
MLB — Jon Beason, Dan Connor, Jeremy Leman
OLB2 — Thomas Davis, Mortty Ivy, Anthony Heygood
LCB — Chris Gamble, Dante Wesley, Captain Munnerlyn
RCB — Richard Marshall, C.J. Wilson, Sherrod Martin, D.J. Clark
SS — Chris Harris, Nate Salley, Joe Fields
FS — Charles Godfrey, Quinton Teal, Paul Chiara

The biggest surprise here is LB James Anderson is listed above Landon Johnson. Cutting Johnson might save some cap space if Mortty Ivy can fill the #7 back-up LB spot.
DE Tyler Brayton is still listed over Charles Johnson
DT Corvey Irvin is slotted behind Damionne Lewis at RDT and not LDT. It looks like until a vet DT is brought in Nick Hayden and Marlon Favorite will battle for the Kemo's spot.

Special Teams:

K — John Kasay, Rhys Lloyd
P — Jason Baker, John Kasay
H — Jason Baker, Josh McCown
PR — Ryne Robinson, Larry Beavers, Captain Munnerlyn
KR — Ryne Robinson, Mike Goodson, Larry Beavers
LS — J.J. Jansen

Robinson is still getting the benefit of the doubt in kick returns. Beavers over Munnerlyn so far and Goodson over Beavers in KO's.

Any other surprises for anyone else?

Ten Players to watch during the Pre-Season

Revshawn — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:00:17 -0000

Through the Pre-Season, there are ten players I am going to be keeping an eye on. Five on offense, and five on defense. I thought that today I would share them with you, so that you can keep an eye on them too.

Matt Moore

Until the Panthers decide otherwise via the NFL Draft, Matt Moore is the future of this franchise. He has shown at times that he can get the job done, especially during the latter half of the 2007 season when he started three games for us, winning two of them. He followed that up with a horrible 2008 Pre-Season showing, but he will get another chance in 2009 to show us that we can depend on him to lead this franchise. He has the arm strength, but can he be accurate?

Dwayne Jarrett

All eyes are going to be on Jarrett throughout the whole game. His confidence has been reported to be rising during training camp, and his play along with it. Can Dwayne Jarrett push Moose to start at flanker? A good showing would help him, especially if he stops dropping those easy passes. We don't need a Braylon Edwards on this team, we need an Andre Johnson. Jarrett has two strong veterans in Moose and Smith to train him into the player we know he can be, but he needs to step up in Pre-Season and show us that he has potential.

Jason Carter

Another wideout that you will need to keep an eye on. For those that don't already know, Jason Carter is one of the kings of training camp. He showed tremendous potential during the 2008 training camp, but we lost him for the season due to injury. This year he seeks not only to make the roster as a 4th or 5th receiver, but to secure a position at slot receiver once Moose retires and Dwayne takes over at flanker. We'll see how far he has come.

Ryne Robinson

3rd receiver in a row I know, but we need to see how Ryne is doing in his kickoff return duties. He has been inconsistant in previous years, and in 2008 due to Ryne's injury in Pre-Season the Panthers were forced to bring in Mark Jones whom performed pretty well. He averaged 24 yards a kick return, and every now and again he would break off a big return to start the Panthers off in their opponents territory. Had the Panthers not had the Julius Peppers situation, they may have opted to resign Jones and cut Ryne altogether. But because of it, Ryne has another opportunity to step up and take the job. He will not get it without a fight, he faces competition in newly signed Jason Chery, and Larry Beavers, as well as our 3rd RB Mike Goodson.

Tony Fiammetta

Hoover finally has some competition, and he's only the best fullback in the 09 draft. The Panthers could save some money by cutting the Hoov, but it's a shame considering how long he has been with our team. I suppose times change, and people grow older. It's rare for a team to carry two fullbacks, so if Tony performs well expect for Double Trouble to have a new guy clearing up the running lanes in front of them.

Corvey Irvin

With Kemo out for the season, Corvey is going to be pushed into a much bigger role than he would be before. Never mind Nick Hayden, I still don't believe that he'll start over him. At worst, Irvin may slowly take the role bit by bit as the regular season progresses as John Fox slowly works him into the role. He'll need to improve quickly if we're going to make up for the loss of Kemo.

Dan Connor

With a strong need at DT and our LB core loaded, Dan Connor may end up as trade bait if he performs exceptionally well in the Pre-Season. Even if he isn't traded, if he manages to overcome Na'il Diggs and take over at OLB we may have the best crew of linebackers in the league. Jon Beason is an absolute beast, Thomas Davis is the best player at our team at blitzing the QB, and Dan Connor reading the mind of the QB to pick off his passes. If it happens, it's going to stink of awesome.

Richard Marshall

With Ken Lucas being signed by the Seahawks, Marshall is going to have a big target on his back. Gamble on the other side is being portrayed as a shutdown corner, so expect Marshall to be tested early and often. He needs to prove that he is able to stand his own as well, or else you'll see QB's pick on him in the regular season.

Sherrod Martin

Expects to convert to corner and serve the same kind of nickel DB role that Marshall served in the previous seasons. How good will he be, and how fast is he going to develop? He's been a rather quiet and unwatched player during training camp, and his play remains to be seen by many fans.

Charles Johnson

In his limited play last year, Charles Johnson did something that Tyler Brayton failed to do the entire season even though he was the starter: Get to the QB. Despite Tyler starting all 16 games, Charles still beat him in the sack category by 1.5 sacks. I read a little more into this than most people. Charles Johnson will compete against Tyler Brayton for the starting DE spot beside Julius Peppers, with Everette Brown the rookie thrown into the fray as a wildcard.

Those are the players I will be keeping an eye on when the Pre-Season kicks off this Monday Night at 8PM. You should keep an eye on them too.

Panthers Week 1 TC Stock Watch

Jaxon — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:30:17 -0000

After one week at Panthers Training Camp there is already movement in the predicted final roster. Some players are building on their OTA performance and others are still stuck in neutral.

The following players have improved their stock:

JJ Jansen - Long Snapper

With the release of J3's primary competition in Nick Sundberg Jansen's stock went golden. As long as he avoids multiple blunders in preseason he should secure a roster spot.

Gary Barnidge - TE

Barnidge continues to build on his good work from OTA"s and is now seeing reps with the first team. Though he is a lock for the roster if he continues his good work into the preseason he good secure the #2 TE spot and see some work on 3^rd down going into the season.

Dan Conner - LB

With Jon Beason watching from the sidelines nursing a hamstring tweak Conner has shown he could step right in if needed. Though I don't expect him to overtake Beason or even SLB Na'il Diggs for a starting slot he could get into a rotation at some point.

Quinton Teal - S

Teal has shown some much needed ball-hawking skills in TC as he displays an aggressive nose for the ball. Where he may have appeared vulnerable coming into OTA's due to his previous UDFA status he continues to show he belongs in this league.

Jason Carter - WR

Carter looks to have picked up right where he left off prior to a leg injury last TC. If Dwayne Jarrett struggles or fails to gain the confidence of the coaching staff Cater could move into the #3 spot with no other challenger stepping up.

Stock is moving down:

Dante Rosario - TE

With Barnidge moving up that can only mean Rosario is moving down. Darin Gantt recently compared Rosario to a one trick pony, a pass-catching TE who struggles to block. That description does not bode well for a TE in this Panthers offense and pretty much explains why Rosario disappeared after game 1 in 2008.

Duke Robinson - OG

The concern about Robinson coming into TC was his conditioning. The fact he is having a hard time with the heat may indicate he has yet to get in game shape. Though I still expect Robinson to make the roster he may end up in the #9 OL slot and ride the ‘inactive' pine all season.

Ryne Robinson - KR/PR/WR

Robinson continues to be treated with kid gloves as they bring him back slowly. The problem is that as a result his competitors are getting more looks and opportunity to take his job. Though Robinson hasn't done anything wrong he also hasn't grabbed his opportunity and shown he can be the return guy. The longer he waits to long his chances of winning the job get.

Panthers Training Camp Day 4 & 5 Report

Jaxon — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 14:53:23 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

4 months ago: Carolina Panthers' DeAngelo Williams (34) is shown during the team's NFL football training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

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The following is a summary of the key happenings from day 4 and 5 of Panthers TC. Since we can't get a way from injury news lets start with that and then discuss the positive developments.

cpanthers#JohnFox also said WR #Dwayne Jarrett banged his wrist in practice. Jarrett returned to the field after being hurt.about 17 hours ago from web.

Jarret is back in action on Day 5. These three remain out:

cpantherscpanthersDid not practice: OL C.J. Davis (ankle), LB #ThomasDavis (knee) and LB #JonBeason (knee).

When asked about the effect of injuries Panthers GM Marty Hurney had this response:

Camp Confidential: Panthers eye next step - NFC South - ESPN
"It starts with having enough depth to sustain," Hurney said. "Different things happened in different seasons in the past. But drafting well and having a young base is really important as far as staying ahead of the game and not having to go out in free agency and bring in guys a lot. If you draft well and bring those guys up, you have a continuity in there that should keep you competitive. Continuity is a result of bringing in the right guys from the start."

Come on Marty, you know if you had the cap space you'd have a couple FA's in here right now competing for back-up spots on both lines.

Here's a key development in the return game:

-- We're starting to figure some things out in the return game. They were working on punts Thursday, and the sad reality is that RB Mike Goodson can't really catch them.

Special teams coach Danny Crossman was putting them through drills before practice, asking them to catch a pass, then field punts one-armed.

At several junctures, Goodson looked like a juggler in a circus. It's weird, for a guy with good hands in the passing game, this seems to stump him.

He might return kicks, but punts aren't in his future.

If this holds then Ryne Robinson has one fewer guy to beat out. From the same link:

-- It's way early, but LS J.J. Jansen looks to my untrained eye to snap a tighter ball than Nick Sundberg.

P Jason Baker saved both of them yesterday during field goal drills, picking balls up to place them.

I said it months ago, if there's one decision this offseason they'd regret, it's letting Jason Kyle go. Maybe they can go sign Kevin Houser later, but only if he leaves his stock tips at home.

This is cause for concern in my view. Here's some positive plays from practice:

The one-on-one duels were highlighted by a deep reception by Kenneth Moore and an interception by Richard Marshall. Moore's catch saw him work past rookie cornerback Sherrod Martin up the left sideline, allowing him space to reach out and lunge for a sliding touchdown grab. Two plays later, Marshall picked off quarterback Matt Moore, tipping a pass that was intended for wide receiver Kevin McMahan and coming down with it before heading upfield ...

This Camp Report video I found disappointing. It is focused around an interview with UDFA Patrick Brown and his match-up with Julius Peppers. I say disappointing because it didn't show footage of the match-up in the question.
You can catch Darin Gantt's podcasts here. If I was to recap his Day 4 podcast: He's really high on Larry Beavers as KR with his elite speed. He also compares Mike Goodson with Kevin Faulk in the way he might be used. Finally, he thinks TE Gary Barnidge has the chance to be an all-around TE, a downfield threat who can also be a good blocker.
So will CB Chris Gamble get the opportunity to be a 'shutdown corner'?

Asked Thursday if he'd consider such a move in the future with Gamble, he hedged as is his custom.

"We've done both," Fox said. "Each game takes on its own personality. Sometimes matching up is an option; sometimes it's left and right. But you mix that up. Everybody in the league does that; we've done both."

Typical Fox answer. Definitely something to watch come the Eagles game.

Projected Panthers 2009 Depth Chart: Receivers

Revshawn — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 22:00:20 -0000

The Carolina Panthers boast one of the best receivers in the league, and also one of the shortest in Steve Smith. You look at the rest of the top receivers in the league, and they all hover around a height of 6-2 or 6-3. Meanwhile Steve Smith is only 5 foot 9, and he's playing among the best of them like it's no big deal. Until he retires, he's going to be one of the top receiving threats that the Panthers have, while the rest of the guys are just fighting to keep up with him. That's the way you describe our receiving core, and this year will be no different.

Steve Smith - Projected 1st receiver - 5,9 185 pounds (9th year, Utah)

Steve Smith was drafted in 2001, the year the Panthers had possibly the best draft in their history. Taken in the 3rd round, all of the draft gurus had already pinned him as a return specialist, for there was no way a person at his height was going to be able to be a productive receiver in the NFL right? 40 times, college production, and all of the statistics all thrown out the window they took one look at his height and his draft stock flew down the drain.

Steve Smith set out in his career to prove them wrong. 4 Pro Bowls, 5 years with 1000+ yards, and all in a career that isn't hardly half over yet. Steve Smith is a deep ball threat on every down with his speed, yet he has the possession skills to make shutdown corners look silly in the short game. If the game is on the line and the Panthers are behind then you no problem. Steve Smith has shown time and time again that he has the ability to catch balls in double coverage and save the game for you in the end.

Steve Smith 2008 Highlights (via AMadden13)

With a six year contract extension signed in 2007, Steve Smith looks to be a Panther for life. It goes without saying that he will be the starter in Week 1. No one will question that. He is a natural leader whose presence cannot underestimated in the locker room or on the field.

100% Possibility to start

Muhsin Muhammad - Projected 2nd receiver - 6,2 215 pounds ((14th year, Michigan State))

Moose is a household name in Carolina. He is our current record holder in almost every career record in the receiving category we have as a team, and besides a 3 year stint in Chicago he has played in Carolina his entire career. He hasn't been exceptionally awesome. He's only had 3 seasons with 1,000+ yards in the regular season, one Pro-Bowl appearance. However, he has been consistent, and the blocking skillset he brings to the table is something a lot of other people don't catch onto when they look at Moose. Breaking off a big run is much easier when there is a big physical receiver to take out a safety or a corner out of the play. He's a good part of the reason that Deangelo Williams had his breakout year, and one of the reasons he will stay a starter on the Carolina offense in spite of being 36 years of age.

Does Moose stand to break 1,000 yards this season? Probably not. In spite of his rapport with Jake Delhomme, our running game is just too great to figure Moose getting much over 60 receptions again in his career. Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart will get the ball early and often with our coaching staff in remembrance of that fateful 5 INT day by Jake Delhomme. Their success sets up the deep ball game perfectly with Steve Smith once the safeties get sucked up in the running game, and Moose is left with possession catch duties when the Panthers are stuck in crucial 3rd down situations as well as the odd pass here and there.

I would imagine a 55+ reception year for the aging veteran in which may be his final year with the Panthers, depending on whether or not the following receiver is ready to take over.

80% possibility to start, 95% possibility to make roster

Dwayne Jarrett - Projected 3rd receiver - 6,4 219 pounds ((3rd year, USC))

While his USC teammate Steve Smith has went on to win a Super Bowl in his rookie year with the Giants, Dwayne Jarrett has yet to nail down his starting roster spot even though he was hyped as a tough, physical that could have went in the 1st round if he had a better pro-day showing and a faster 40' time. So far, he's been a disappointment. Dwayne Jarrett didn't get the start over Keary Colbert in his rookie year, and since then he has been reduced to slot receiver duties until further notice. In 2009, it's going to be even harder for him to hit the field thanks to the success of Double Trouble keeping the 3 WR set off the field.

However, there is some reason to hope.

Dwayne Jarrett is entering his 3rd year, which is the traditional time for receivers to break out and have a big year. Dwayne Jarrett is not without talent and playmaking ability, as he flashed last year with a couple of 3rd down receptions in the game against the Chargers, leading to a dramatic conclusion we all remember and treasure deep in our hearts. Finally, he will not have D.J. Hackett stealing snaps from him on 3rd down so he will be able to see the field more and finally start flashing those physical catches in traffic that we drafted him to see.

This is a make or break year for Jarrett. If he has a strong showing, the Panthers will take him under their wings as the 2nd receiver for now and for the future. If not, except the Panthers to work harder to sign that contract extension for Julius Peppers so that they can free up some cap space to search for Dwayne's replacement in FA. Dwayne Jarrett will make the team this year, but what happens after that is up for his play on the field to decide.

Dwayne Jarrett has an outside chance to start if he shows signs of improvements and Moose takes a heavy step back. If not, expect John Fox to go with the longtime veteran.

20% chance to start, 100% chance to make roster

Ryne Robinson - Projected in 5 WR set/Kick Returner - 5,9 179 pounds (3rd year, Miami)

Like Dwayne Jarrett, Ryne Robinson is at a crossroads with the Panthers. Drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 NFL Draft, he was taken in hopes that he would provide a reliable return man for the Panthers. Instead, he was inconsistent in his rookie year and suffered an injury the following year that put him on IR. With Mark Jones leaving via free agency, Ryne Robinson has one more chance to prove that he can contribute to the team.

As a receiver, Ryne Robinson is a small, speedy guy. He's not going to win many jump balls, but he has that speed that can stretch the defense and give defensive backs some trouble. However, he needs to improve his hands and hold onto the football better, as he was the result of two fumbles in his limited time as a rookie. With a little work he can be a contributor in the 5 WR set.

He is also expected to return to his kick return and punt return duties in 2009. Don't expect for him to keep them long though if he struggles early in the preseason. Jonathan Stewart has experience in kickoff returns and did well in the Pac-10, and Jason Carter along with a few other receivers have the skills needed to try out as well. Ryne has flashed the skills to do his job well near the end of his rookie year, but he needs to prove that he can be more consistent for the Panthers to commit to him long-term.

95% chance to make roster

Jason Carter - Suspected in 5 WR set/Kick Returner - 6,0 205 pounds (3rd year, Texas A&M)

Jason Carter started his career with the Vikings in 2006. He stayed on their practice squad and made it onto the active roster near the end of the year before being cut at the 07 training camp. Then he came to the Panthers, and Jason Carter turned some heads and amazed the fans in training camp. It would have been enough for him to make the team, but then he blew out his knee and ended up on IR for the year. In 2009, it looks to be another developmental year for the young receiver, and he may develop into a long-term answer at slot receiver if Dwayne Jarrett takes the #2 spot later on.

Jason Carter made his mark in training camp with his speed. Excellent hands, he'll soar up and make some circus catch that makes you scratch your head and wonder how he did that. And once again, he has that 3rd year breakout label working for him too. I'd be very surprised if he's cut at the end of training camp, Jason Carter should continue to rise into the roster and make the team through one reason or another, whether it be Punt Return, Kick Return, or another man on the 5 WR set. He is a playmaker, and it would be a waste for him to ride the bench.

80% chance to make the roster

Kenny Moore - Suspected WR - 5,11 195 pounds (2nd year, Wake Forest)

With Mike Goodson being tried out for the slot receiver position, Kenny Moore's roster spot has been put into doubt. He will have to fight hard to prove worthy of being kept by the Panthers. The ceiling of our other wideouts are far too high, and if Mike Goodson can prove himself to be a capable receiver it would make Kenny Moore obsolete, and he would be cut so the extra spot could be used at other positions. Depending on how Goodson performs, it's a virtual coin-flip on whether or not he makes the final roster. Will the Panthers go with 5 wideouts and accept Mike Goodson as a 6th? Or will they elect for 6 wideouts like they have in the past? The job of Kenny Moore hangs in the balance.

50% chance to make the roster

Larry Beavers - Suspected cut - 5,10 167 pounds (Rookie year, Wesleyan)

Averaged 39.5 yards per kick return and an amazing 29.2 yards per punt return as a senior at Wesley. He has a chance to make the team as a kick and punt returner. Though at 5.10 and 167 pounds, he is extremely tiny for his size. He's going to have to bulk up a bit to withstand the pounding he'll receive from other teams, one good lick will knock this kid out cold.

25% chance to make the roster

Jason Chery - Suspected KR/PR - 5,11 185 pounds (Rookie year, Louisiana-Lafayette)

A fellow Rajun Cajun from the same school as Panthers Jake Delhomme, Jason Chery declined offers from the Steelers and the Saints after the draft to sign an offer with the Panthers. A little-known player that was on the rise as the draft approached, he didn't manage to crack the 7th round. He listed Carolina as his choice mainly because he believed that Carolina would be his best bet to make the team as a Punt or Kick returner. He will attempt to do this during training camp, but with more skilled players ahead of him the chances of him making it are very little. He seems destined to make the practice squad on some team.

20% chance to make the roster

Kevin McMahan - Suspected cut - 6,2 196 pounds (2006 Mr. Irrevelant, Maine)

After being thrown around from team to team, practice squad to practice squad, the 2006 Mr. Irrevelant makes it to Carolina with a interesting skill set. He's 6,2 and runs a 4.4, yet he's never been able to put it all together to be a starter in the league. His desire to play the game is questionable, he once left a game while playing with the Raiders because he had bit his tongue. Seems like just another camp body.

5% chance to make roster

Marcus Monk - Suspected cut - 6,4 222 pounds (2nd year, Arkansas)

Monk is a big body, but he doesn't have the speed to provide for anything other than an endzone possession receiver. Never latched onto a practice squad during his rookie year, which is worrisome. He has a high ceiling as a possession receiver, but not enough to justify keeping him around. Expect him to be cut.

0% chance to make roster

Discussing the 7 Keys to the Panthers Success in 2009

Jaxon — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:00:22 -0000

More photos » by RICK HAVNER - AP

7 months ago: Carolina Panthers' Decori Birmingham (24), Jeff Otah (79), Jonathan Stewart (28) and C.J. Davis (71) walk off the field after football minicamp on Friday, May 1, 2009 in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Rick Havner)

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First Austin Penny over at the Bleacher Report put up a nice post with slide show detailing his "7 keys the Panthers season in 2009" (See first reference below). Then one of the guys over at Cat Crave (Joseph?) "piggy-backed" on it with his own commentary on the 7 items. So of course I can't resist either but I have to arrange the order of the items presented. First, here's the links to those articles.

Seven Keys to The Carolina Panthers Success in 2009 | Bleacher Report
he Carolina Panthers face a tough journey to another NFC South title in 2009. With the NFC's toughest schedule and a host of coaching changes, the Panthers will need to be clicking on all cylinders come September if they want to improve upon last year's embarrassing playoff exit.

A Piggyback Ride on Austin Penny’s "7 Keys to the Carolina Panthers Success in 2009″ | Cat Crave | A Blog For Carolina Panthers Fans
One of our fellow Panther fans, Austin Penny, from www.BleacherReport.com wrote up a nice article detailing what will make or break Carolina in 2009 outlined by 7 key points. The following is a response to those 7 keys to Carolina’s success in 2009…

1. Of the 7 Keys listed my #1 has to be Double Trouble (Penny had it #4).

In 2009 the Panthers have to be able to run the ball just as effectively as last year. If the Panthers should struggle to run the ball consistently then the season could get ugly in a hurry. The Panthers running game helps every other phase of the game, from the passing game to the time the defense spends on the side line to improving field position. If the Panthers can even improve on their running game, which I'm predicting, then they could have an outstanding season. It will allow Jake to use the play-action pass effectively and keep defenses off balance. It will keep our defense from getting worn out over four quarters and hopefully it will help us protect a lead late in a game. It all starts with the run game in 2009.

2. Ron Meeks (Penny had at #3)

With only one change to the defensive starting line-up one has to wonder what will be different about the defense in 2009? The difference will have to come from new DC Ron Meeks and his up-tempo defensive scheme. He has to get the defense to buy into his philosophy and get all 11 players on the field flying to the ball. He has to produce schemes that keeps the offense guessing and keep the Panthers from becoming predictable down the stretch as they did last season. The Panthers won't be a team that looks to win scoring fests or come from behind by huge margins so they need a defense that will keep them in the game. This defense has the players to be a top 10 unit if the offense can chew some clock and limits the number of stops the defense has to make on a weekly basis.

3. Jake Delhomme (We both agree he's #3)

In 2009 Jake has to limit his mistakes and not make the poor choices that sunk the '08 season. I believe Jake still commands the huddle and the confidence of the offensive unit so long as the running game holds up. At a young 34 in NFL years Jake can and will lead more 4th quarter wins as long as he remains confident and poised and doesn't try to force the ball into tight situations. His job could even be made easier should a consistent 3rd WR option become available.

4. The Secondary (Penny had at #6)

For all the focus on the pass rush that issue could be mitigated to a degree with an improved secondary. Can I get an amen for a few 'coverage' sacks in 2009? This key will be heavily influenced by #2 above and the schemes employed by Meeks. The Panthers secondary was too predictable down the stretch and rarely if ever deployed man coverage. With Chris Gamble wanting to test his mettle in this regard lets see him earn the 'shutdown corner' moniker. The secondary needs to be able to shut down the opposing #1 WR to prevent the scoring fest we allowed down the stretch. With Gamble. Marshall, Harris and Godfrey the Panthers should have the athletes and experience to improve this unit dramatically.

5. Julius Peppers (Penny had at #1)

I admit to purposely putting Peppers down this far to make a point. As much as I want Pep back in 2009 I don't think he is the #1 key to the season, not even close. Even if he should sit out the season or move to another team this Panther defense could still be a very good unit. With the rookie Everette Brown in the fold the Panthers will at least have some speed coming from the edge from one side and with an improved Charles Johnson on the other side there is still plenty of hope. My hope is that Pep will use the off-season snub as motivation for the entire season to show they were wrong not to deal for him. In that case he could have a huge impact on the 2009 season but I don't think it is necessary to has a successful season.

6. #3 WR Though not necessarily Dwayne Jarrett (Penny had at #7)

We all hope this is the year Dwayne Jarrett breaks out but more improtantly is that Delhomme establishes some confidence in a 3rd WR option no matter who it is. Players such Ryne Robinson, Mike Goodson or Jason Carter could also emerge as that threat. The Panthers need another option for those games where the opposing secondary is blanketing Smitty and another deep threat is needed to make them pay for that decision.

7. TE play (Penny had at #6)

I thought our TE's played well in 2008 when called upon to contribute in the passing game. The problem is that they were not utilized very much after the SD game. This is a key from the standpoint of utilizing the play action pass to slow down the run blitz and ultimately making the defense pay for playing the run too heavily. The TE needs to be able to release and get open down the middle of the field, something I thought didn't happen quite enough in 2008. If the Panthers can hit the TE in the middle of the field a few times every game it will make the run that more effective and essentially give the Panthers yet another offensive weapon for defenses to game plan against.

So there is my take on the 7 Keys to the Panthers 2009 season as first started by Mr. Penny. Thoughts?

Panthers Top 5 Position Battles: Offense

Jaxon — Wed, 13 May 2009 11:00:18 -0000

Continuing the review of the Panthers top position battles to look forward too in training camp we turn to the offense. In this case I've got 5 roster positions to analyze as the more intriguing match-ups to watch.

#3 / Slot Wide Receiver

With the release of DJ Hackett it would seem Dwayne Jarrett has the inside track on this spot, or does he? Then the Panthers selected RB Mike Goodson in the ~~5^th~~ 4th round and quickly declared him a prospect for the slot position. When you add in 3^rd year WR and PR Ryne Robinson and WR Jason Carter you have a full on competition. The Panthers could keep 6 wide receivers if two of them also fill duel roles, like 3^rd RB, PR or KR. Since I don't have to explain where I would get the roster spot from I'm going to say the Panthers will figure out a way to keep all four mentioned above with Jarrett getting the first reps in the slot against the Eagles, then Robinson. Until we see what plays they run for Goodson in the preseason I can't say if he will even see the field outside of special teams. Carter could work his way into a rotation but working against him the Panthers focus on the running game. If the Panthers cut one at this point I have to say it will be Carter, my thinking being he may need more time coming off the injury.

Fullback

I don't think it's a given the Panthers keep two fullbacks. The Panthers will have some tough decisions with the final cut down so I'm thinking if the 4^th round rookie Tony Fiammetta can instill some trust with management he might usher in the end of the Brad Hoover era sooner than expected. I love the Hoov as much as any fan and I don't think he has lost much on his game in spite of the obvious pounding he has inflicted on others. It could just come down to the headcount and the Panthers desire to take a chance on another player. I have not even seen film on Fiammetta so I can't say for sure he has the skills to do it but if there is a position that translates from college to the NFL it is fullback. If you know how to run and block the role can be adequately reduced to just that. It would be better for the Panthers in the long run if Fiammetta showed he was ready for the prime time immediately.

Will Panther WR Dwayne Jarrett Gives the Panthers a 3rd Option at WR in 2009?

#2 TE

The Panthers may not run many two TE sets in 2009 but they will still retain the personnel to run it. Though they actually kept 3 TE's in 2008 that is not a given in 2009. Its safe to say Jeff King will be the starter and I'll say right now Dante Rosario holds off Gary Barnidge for the #2 position. If the Panthers keep two FB's then Bardnidge could be the odd man out. Why Rosario disappeared after the San Diego game is still confusing to me as far as how little the Panthers involved him in the passing game.

Right Guard

In spite of the fact many other pundits are expecting rookie OG Duke Robinson to compete for Keydrick Vincent' spot I don't think it will be that close provided Vincent is healthy. I think Robinson's conditioning and inability to control his temper will be enough to let him watch a few games before the staff gives him more playing time. If Vincent shows wear and tear and Robinson gets in shape I might eat my words but my money is on Vincent starting against the Eagles.

#2 QB

Since ~~Luke~~ Josh McCown wasn't brought into Carolina until after the preseason we has yet to participate in a TC competition in Carolina. 3^rd stringer Matt Moore has to be miffed to be listed 3^rd after playing so well at the end of 2007. If not for the preseason injury in 2008 he might be getting more consideration as competing for the starter's job. Moore represents the biggest boom or bust in camp. I can see him blowing away McCown and I can see him cutting cut. If he can't show more promise than McCown than the rookie UDFA Hunter Cantwell might be a darkhorse for the #3 QB slot. I'm going to stick with McCown holding the #2 job at the start of the season.

Official Carolina Panthers/Minnesota Vikings Injury Reports

Gonzo — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:14:45 -0000

Well, folks, it's Friday, and that means it's time for a check of the injury reports for both of the teams involved in this Sunday's clash at the Metrodome. Oh, and there's one name on the injury reports that Vikings fans probably aren't going to like too terribly much.

We'll start with the visiting Carolina Panthers.

Player	Position	Injury	Friday Practice	Game Status
Matt Moore	QB	Fibula	DNP	Out
Travelle Wharton	G	Knee	DNP	Out
Ryne Robinson	WR	Knee	Limited	Doubtful
Chris Harris	S	Thigh	DNP	Questionable
Tyler Brayton	DE	Ankle	Limited	Questionable
Na'il Diggs	LB	Shoulder	Limited	Questionable
Chris Gamble	CB	Shoulder	Limited	Questionable
Ma'ake Kemoeatu	DT	Illness	Limited	Questionable
Richard Marshall	CB	Thigh	Limited	Questionable

That's a LOT of folks to have listed as "Questionable." I'm trying to find a little more information on which of those guys are going to play and which are going to sit out, and as soon as I can find something I'll pass it along to everybody.

Now, on to the Beloved Purple. The injury list is significantly longer than it has been over the past few weeks, and that's never a good sign when you're preparing to play a team as physical as the Panthers.

Player	Position	Injury	Friday Practice	Game Status
Madieu Williams	S	Neck	DNP	Out
Adrian Peterson	RB	Hamstring	Limited	Questionable
Sidney Rice	WR	Knee	Limited	Questionable
Maurice Hicks	RB	Foot	Full	Probable
Ellis Wyms	DT	Concussion	Full	Probable
Aundrae Allison	WR	Foot	Limited	Probable
Bernard Berrian	WR	Foot	Limited	Probable
Artis Hicks	OL	Elbow	Limited	Probable
Darren Sharper	S	Shoulder	Limited	Probable
Tarvaris Jackson	QB	Coaching Ignorance	Limited	Doubtful

Hey. . .any names stand out to anybody there? (Besides that last one, which I may or may not have made up.)

Yes, folks, Adrian Peterson is going to be a game-time decision with a hamstring injury that he got in last week's loss to Indianapolis. If I were a betting man, I would guess that he was going to play and that they're just being cautious with him, but at this point I know just as much as you do.

More on this game over the course of this evening and into tomorrow. Until then, enjoy the rest of your Friday, and we'll see you back here again soon!