SB Nation - Richard Marshall

New York Jets Pass Offense vs. Carolina Panthers Pass Defense

John B — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 14:14:53 -0000

The Panthers enter this game with a top five pass defense, giving up only 185 yards per game under first year coordinator Ron Meeks. Meeks is a disciple of Tony Dungy and favors the Tampa 2 defense. This scheme depends a lot on the front four to generate a pass rush. There is very little blitzing. In fact, the Panthers only have 2 sacks all year from non linemen. It is primarily an execution based defense. You more or less know what is coming, but it is not all that easy to beat.

Julius Peppers is Carolina's best pass rusher. The 6'7" 283 pound end could probably fit on the line in either a 4-3 or a 3-4 system. He leads the team with 7 sacks on the year. He is being slowed by an undisclosed hand injury, which has limited his playing time recently. His play has been somewhat up and down this year. Tyler Branton also plays end for the Panthers. He has 2.5 sacks and 16 pressures. Rookie Everette Brown from Florida State will also see time at end. He spent a lot of time subbing for Peppers last week. Charles Johnson, a part of Carolina's nickle package on the pass rush, is battling a pectoral injury. His status is unclear. No Carolina tackle has a sack this year. Based on this, the key matchup will be Peppers against D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Peppers has 7 of his team's 18 sacks this year. If D'Brickashaw does his job, there's a good chance the Jets will keep Mark Sanchez clean.

Linebackers and secondary players in a system like this play a lot of zone coverage. The middle linebacker in particular must be very athletic and cover a lot of ground. The safeties are playing Cover 2 deep, which means everything in front of them in the middle of the field falls to him. Jon Beason mans this role for the Panthers. He's been good near the line, leading the team in tackles and been solid in coverage. Carolina is thinner at outside linebacker. Standout Thomas Davis, who was excellent this year in zone coverage, is on injured reserve. So in backup Landon Johnson. Another starting outside linebacker, Na'il Diggs, is banged up with injured ribs and quite possibly could be out Sunday. That could leave young players James Anderson and Dan Connor outside. They both have been adequate against the pass, but it could leave Dustin Keller opportunities to find seams.

Carolina will likely start Richard Marshall and Chris Gamble on the outside at corner. They comprise a solid tandem. Gamble had a rough game against the Dolphins last week, but he has good cover skills. Marshall has been a solid performer all year. At safety Charles Godfrey is battling an ankle injury for the Panthers. If he can't go, he'll be replaced by rookie Sherrod Martin. Martin has started the last 4 games and arguably played better than Godfrey, who has struggled. Chris Harris, the other safety, has also had some lapses. Still, this defense is a Cover 2 with an emphasis on safeties playing conservatively to prevent big plays. I'm not sure I'd count on Braylon Edwards or David Clowney as vertical threats. A good route runner like Jerricho Cotchery will probably be the primary target working to find holes in the zone.

Panthers Blame Game Has No Simple Solution

Jaxon — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:30:25 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

3 months ago: Carolina Panthers' Julius Peppers, left, talks with defensive line coach Brian Baker, right, during the team's NFL football training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009. It took only two preseason games _ with one tackle and no sacks _ for the critics to pounce. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

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Darin Gantt is easily my favorite Panthers beat writer at the moment, he is always timely in his topics of choice and gives the insight we crave in most cases. I almost always find myself agreeing with Gantt... but not today. Today I find myself in disagreement with his post that all the Panthers troubles in 2009 are due to franchising DE Julius Peppers:

Where keeping Peppers mostly hurt them this year was in the way it robbed them of their depth...Without funds to adequately fill the backup positions, the Panthers are filling kick coverage and return units with odd parts, and guys who were never good special teamers to begin with. The fact that an undrafted rookie receiver such as Charly Martin can go from practice squad to active roster in a week speaks to special teams coach Danny Crossman's desperation. He essentially is trying to play high stakes poker with Old Maid cards, and not surprisingly, it ain't working.

Let's examine this bit by bit starting with the obvious stuff. I can agree that being cap-starved meant the loss of two key back-ups to the offensive line. The Panthers did not have the cap space to tender C/G Geoff Hangartner and T Frank Omiyale. The problem is that the Panthers were already 4-5 by the time they needed a back-up to start a game, when LT Jordan Gross went down. So would having Frank Omiyale in at LT provide a better alternative? I just checked the Bears depth chart and Omiyale is listed as the back-up LG on what even their fans admit is a horrid offensive line in Chicago. I doubt Omiyale would make much of a difference in this case.

The more obvious depth issue was the glaring need at DT once Maake Kemoeatu was lost for the season. But that didn't happen until training camp meaning that even if the Panthers had King Tut's treason to spend most of the top notch DT's were already signed elsewhere else by the time the need surfaced. I will agree there were a couple guys that might have stopped the bleeding sooner (that Boone guy comes to mind) but the truth is injuries killed the run defense, not Peppers contract. If Kemo and rookie Corvey Irvin had remained healthy we might have performed better against the run (or not). On the bright side the Panthers should be loaded at DT next season.

Would the Panthers have gotten more LB help in the offseason if not for the Peppers tag? It seems unlikely given LB was one of the deepest positions on the team. The Panthers were 6 deep with quality players and let a couple good prospects walk after the preseason because they are so deep. Hardly seems like a weakness created from salary cap problems.

Gantt also blames the poor special teams play on Peppers contract, stating it prevented them from signing top notch special teamers. If he is referring to kick and punt returners I will cede the point. The Panthers could still use an experienced punt and/or kick returner but honestly was there that many good ones available in the offseason? We could have kept Mark Jones but the Panthers obviously thought they could do better (not). If the position was so important could they not have spent a high draft pick on one even with the Peppers tag? Sure they could have.

My biggest beef with special teams though is with kick coverage. Every team does use ‘gunners' on coverage and I would agree the good ones are worth a roster spot just for that specific purpose. Did the Panthers ever mention the need to improve the depth at gunner? Was it ever a priority? They already have David Wesley and could put Richard Marshall back in the spot (didn't they already?) if needed. It hardly seems like ‘skimping' on special teams coverage when you are putting NFL-quality players out there to do something as simple as tackle.

If Danny Crossman is desperate it's because he obviously know it's not working too and simply thinks he can change out some of the parts and get better results. So how many special teams players could the Panthers have really brought in if money was not an issue? LB Donte Curry is one that comes to mind but the Panthers seem uninterested at this point. Would one guy really make that much difference? Keep in mind that in the past three seasons the Panthers unit has been ranked near the bottom in returns and coverage, a span that includes a number of different players using HIS system. So after three seasons of piss poor special teams coverage you're going to tell me the problem is not the scheme, it's not the players in charge of actually tackling the returner, it's the franchised DE on the sideline?

Let's not leave any stone unturned. Did the Peppers tag prevent us getting another WR? At what point have the Panthers ever said they needed another WR prior to Moose getting hurt? Never. Now if you wanted to say the Peppers tag prevented us from signing WR Chris Chambers you might have me on that one. Chambers played well yesterday for the Chiefs and looks like he is still a competent #2 WR. But the Panthers were already 3-5 by the time Chambers hit the market.

Here's another point Gantt could have argued but didn't: Peppers contract prevented the Panthers from signing or trading for a starter quality QB. Bingo! I would agree with that...if the Panthers had actually agreed a QB was needed. But they never thought that and still don't think it to this day. So how can you blame Peppers contract on that, unless you want to blame Delhomme's extension on it? That's an obvious point but not germane to the point of this post. As we look back at the QB's that traded teams this past offseason is there any one of them that we wish we had? Hmmm....

So to summarize my side of the debate and the point I'm trying to make I'm going use Gantt's own words from a tweet he sent out AFTER this post. This is Gantt' response to tweet asking if Special Teams coach Danny Crossman is at fault for the problems on special teams. (It's a tweet where answer to question comes first)

Yes, because scapegoating's always easier than a complicated solution. RT @michaelbfinch I disagree re: ST problems. All on Danny Crossman.

Now that is rich!

I would argue turning these Panthers around this offseason is a complicated effort and will no tbe solved by simply getting rid of a single contract, no matter how large that contract may be.

Poll

Do you agree the primary cause of the Panthers losing season so far in 2009 is due to Julius Peppers franchise tender?

Yes

74 votes

No

164 votes

238 votes | Poll has closed

Breaking Down the Key Plays in Panthers Win Over Atlanta

Ryan Basen — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:13:47 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

Panthers receiver Steve Smith catches a touchdown pass over Atlanta Falcons corner Tye Hill (24) Sunday. Smith's catch was one of several clutch plays the Panthers offense and defense made in the red zone against Atlanta.(AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

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In Sunday's game the Falcons and Panthers posted similar totals in yards of offense (400-380), first downs (22-19) and time of possession (32 minutes-28 minutes). Yet the Panthers won 28-19. Why? Because, unlike they have most of this season, the Panthers made the big plays when they had to. Their opponent did not.

Carolina forced two turnovers, to none for Atlanta. And while the Panthers scored touchdowns all three times they drove into the red zone, the Falcons went just two-for-five in red zone opportunities. On one of those trips inside the 20, they did not score at all. In fact Carolina converted a second-and-15, and a third-down play in the red zone. Atlanta, meanwhile, twice failed to convert third-down plays inside the 20.

Here then is a breakdown of the game's key red zone plays, and the second turnover -- which crushed Atlanta's comeback hopes:

Situation: Panthers ball, Second-and-15, Atlanta 20. Atlanta leads 3-0. 7:03 to play in the first quarter.

Formations: Carolina lined up with one back, a receiver split on each side and a tight end on each side. Atlanta lined up in a 4-3, with an eighth defender in the box lined up over a tight end. Two corners played off the receivers a few yards.

What happened: Quarterback Jake Delhomme threw a quick hitch right to receiver Steve Smith, who deeked a corner deeked a safety and was tackled at the Atlanta 1 by linebacker 50.

How it happened: Smith was single-covered on the outside. Delhomme threw the ball to him quickly. Smith ran a buttonhook and stopped at the 15. The corner covering him backpedaled but when he saw the ball coming, he stopped and ran towards Smith. By the time Smith caught the ball, though, the corner was only at the 11. That gave Smith plenty of space to make a move to the outside, losing the corner as he cut inside.

The result: The Panthers had a first-and-goal at the 1. Running back Jonathan Stewart scored on a run on the next play.

Situation: Carolina ball, Third-and-goal, Atlanta 4. 7-3 Carolina. 12:33 to play in second quarter.

Formations: Carolina lined up with one back, three receivers (two right) and a tight end right. Atlanta used four linemen and stationed four defenders in the middle of the field, in between the line of scrimmage and goal line. Two corners were in press coverage, and one played off. The Falcons did not have a safety in the end zone.

What happened: Following Stewart's touchdown, Atlanta failed to convert a third-down play at the Carolina 39. The Falcons punted and the Panthers drove to the Atlanta 47. Then the Panthers converted a third down there.

Five plays later, facing this third-and-goal, Carolina converted again. Delhomme threw to the deep right corner of the end zone for Smith, who made the catch over corner Tye Hill for a touchdown.

How it happened: Smith lined up far right, sold a slant pass, then cut outside to beat Hill. Hill never turned around and interfered with Smith, who jumped and caught the ball anyways.

The result: Carolina led 14-3 after the extra point.

Situation: Carolina ball, Third-and-goal, Atlanta 4. 14-10 Carolina. 1:12 to play in second.

Formations: The Panthers lined up with one back, a receiver left and three receivers bunched in the right slot. Atlanta used four linemen with five other defenders in the box, and one corner in press coverage on the isolated receiver.

What happened: Delhomme threw low over the middle for Smith, who caught the pass in the end zone, in between two Atlanta defenders.

How it happened: Smith started in the right slot and waited until tight end Jeff King released in front of him. Smith then ran a shallow cross left and drew linebacker Curtis Lofton in coverage. Delhomme placed the ball in between Lofton and safety Thomas DeCoud, who arrived late.

The result: Carolina led 21-10 at the half.

Situation: Atlanta ball, Third-and-goal, Carolina 6. 21-10 Carolina. 9:34 to play in third quarter.

Formations: Atlanta lined up in the shotgun with three receivers bunched in the right slot, one receiver left and one back. Carolina used three linemen with four other defenders in the box, a corner in press coverage and a safety at the goal line.

What happened: Corner Richard Marshall broke up a pass from Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan at the goal line.

How it happened: Two receivers released inside from the right slot. Tight end Tony Gonzalez, also in that slot, waited for them to go and then flared outside right. Marshall covered Gonzalez, who suddenly spun inside and looked for the ball. But Marshall was in great position, jumped the route and nearly intercepted the pass.

The result: Atlanta settled for a field goal on the next play and still trailed by eight.

Situation: Atlanta ball, Third-and-1, Carolina 16. 21-19 Carolina. 6:45 to play in fourth quarter.

Formations: Atlanta lined up with one back, one receiver split on each side, and one tight end on each side. Carolina used three linemen with four other defenders in the box, two corners playing off and two safeties deep.

What happened: Ryan was stuffed for no gain on a quarterback sneak.

How it happened: The Falcons did not huddle after the previous play, a 4-yard Ryan run. Ryan snapped the ball quickly and ran in between his center and right guard. But the Panthers got enough penetration to prevent the first down.

The result: The Falcons settled for a field goal attempt on the next play, but kicker Jason Elam badly shanked a 34-yard attempt wide left. Elam and his holder appeared to be off timing-wise.

Situation: Atlanta ball, First-and-10, midfield. 21-19 Carolina. 3:59 to play in fourth.

Formations: Atlanta lined up in I-formation with two receivers left. Carolina used four linemen, two corners playing off and a linebacker showing blitz up the middle.

What happened: Ryan threw deep over the middle for receiver Michael Jenkins but overthrew him. Marshall intercepted the pass and returned it to the Carolina 49.

How it happened: Ryan faked a handoff to tailback Jason Snelling, dropped back deep in the pocket and looked downfield. As he set to throw, defensive end Tyler Brayton hurried him from his right. Ryan did not step into the throw and it came out high for Jenkins at the 25. Marshall was in deep zone coverage and caught the errant pass at the 22.

The result: Three plays later, Stewart dashed 45 yards for the game-clinching touchdown.

Defensive Key Matchups: Panthers vs Eagles

LittleKing — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 02:18:45 -0000

When looking at the key match-ups from week to week it is easy to always pick the big names (Peppers, Gamble, Beason), which I try to shy away from, instead choosing players that I think will have to step up their game for the Panthers to win. Yet saying it's the first game of the season I thought I'd start with the usual suspects as there are plenty of questions to go around.

1. DE Julius Peppers vs T Jason Peters

After the offseason showdown, and now receiving $1+ million per game, everyone is expecting Peppers to produce. He lack of production during the preseason is a concern. He has stated he prefers to lead by example instead of words. Well, now is the time to produce and lead in his own way.

He will primarily line up against All-Pro LT Jason Peters. Peters was acquired from the Bills during the offseason and although he gave up a league high 11.5 sacks last season, he will be formidable first opponent for Peppers. The Eagles have a great line coach in Juan Castillo, having coached four lineman to the Pro Bowl in his career. He has also has created several offensive line starters from rookie free agents, including current start C Jamaal Jackson. Jason Peters was already good, but his coach could make him that much better.

However, also starting Sunday on the other side of their line is backup T Winston Justice. The regular start, Shawn Andrews, is out with back problems. Justice is a very questionable in his ability and whoever plays left end, or if Peppers moves to LE during the game, could be poised for a big day.

Peppers is on a short leash with the fans and he will need a stellar performance to hold of his detractors.

2. MLB Jon Beason vs RB Brian Westbrook / TE Brent Celek

Beason is on the list because he's been injured and is the leader of the defense and we all know the D didn't look strong during the preseason. They say they are ready to play and that they haven't all played together won't make a difference and they feel confident at with their abilities. There will be a lot of hard games this year but Beason will have a lot to watch for during this first game.

With the west coast offense the Eagles use, the short yardage passes could definitely cause problems. Westbrook is a key player for the Eagles. His durability has been questioned saying he hasn't completed a full season of games in his career. He had two offseason knee surgeries and just turn 30, the magical age for RB. However, since he is used often in screen it will probably be a bigger match up with LB Thomas Davis.

Another concern for Beason will be new starter TE Brent Celek. This is his second NFL season and there are indications he could be a significant fixture in their plans. Beason will have to account for him coming across the middle as well as protecting against the run.

3. CB Chris Gamble vs WR DeSean Jackson

Gamble received a huge contract at the end of last season. During the preseason he didn't play like a quality starter, let alone a shutdown corner that he is now paid to be. Some of this falls on the defensive scheme, playing soft zones, but there is no question he was badly beaten during the Baltimore game. If the Panthers expect to win on Sunday, Gamble will have to have a much better game.

To do so he will have to face second year WR DeSean Jackson, who last year broke the Eagles rookie receiving records for total yards and their leading receiver in 2008. With a year under his belt he is expected to fill a huge role in the Eagles plans.

Like Peppers, the fans are looking for Gamble to play up to his contract or we won't be happy about it.

4. Panthers DTs vs RB Brian Westbrook

Not that Westbrook is known as a power runner but saying our middle has some large (pun intended) questions it could be several games into the season before we truly know how they will perform. If the Eagles don't test the the middle of our defensive line, I would seriously question their game prep. Until our DT's prove themselves on the field, every team is going to press the middle. If our they don't play well it will be a long night and season.

However, the Eagles will also be missing their starting LG Todd Herremans. It is being reported that backup C Nick Cole will most likely replace him. Yet Cole is also on the injury report as probable. I don't know much about Cole, but the Eagles though enough of him to offer him a restricted FA contract that he signed. Saying the Eagles offensive line is a mess it could be just enough for our defensive line to look okay and take care of business this week. Also giving new DT Loius Leonard and Re'Shon Harris a week to get their feet under them.

5. CB Richard Marshall

Marshall was suppose to be the only new starter until Kemo was injured. Many are happy to forget the player that he is replacing, but Marshall is still an unproven starter and will have to prove his abilities on the field. Unless they always put Gamble across from Jackson, Marshall will see his share of him as well. This is his chance to shine and we will all be watching closely.

Basically take your pick this week about which defensive player you have questions about and most likely they are valid. But these are the one I think will be the most important this week as we prepare to start our season on a positive note.

Five More Questions Regarding the Panthers

Jaxon — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:19:00 -0000

More photos » by Alan Diaz - AP

4 months ago: Carolina Panthers running back Mike Goodson, center, is taken down by Miami Dolphins players in the second quarter of a preseason NFL football game in Miami, Fla., Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009. The Dolphins defeated the Panthers 27-17. (AP Photo/Alan Diaz).

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The News & Observer writer Charles Chandler poses five questions regarding the Panthers 2009 prospects following two preseason losses. The five are good questions that I'm going to add five more to:

Question 6: Who in the world is going to start at LDT in the season opener?

Panther rookie Marlon Favorite and Corvey Irvin show promise and should get in the rotation at least periodically. Neither player though has shown enough consistency or skill to be the season long solution. So if it's obvious the Panthers will need to bring in a veteran just exactly when will they do that? Will the Panthers give up a draft pick and/or player for a decent player or will they simply sign another teams' cast off? There is potential for the Panthers to overpay given the entire league knows they are in dire need.

Question 7: Who is the #3 wide receiver?

The word from camp is Dwayne Jarrett is finally showing his potential but in the first two games Kenneth Moore has outplayed him. Moore seems better suited for the slot than Jarrett while Jarrett still seems to be a year away (I'm being kind).

Question #8: Who is the #2 QB?

QB coach Rip Scherer said Matt Moore would get his opportunity and he played pretty good this past week. His stat was less than impressive but he stood in the pocket, showed some awareness and made a couple nice throws. It would appear at the moment though the competition with Josh McCown is still wide open.

Question #9: Is it time to get worried about RB Jonathan Stewart?

If he's going to be available for the season opener he needs to get into practice soon. Darin Gantt reported this morning that Stewart was still being held out. If he can't start participating in full practices by the end of the week you might want to prepare mentally for Mike Goodson to back up DeAngelo Williams in the season opener.

Question #10: Who will be the starting nickel cornerback?

CJ Wilson appeared to have the inside track but rookie Sherrod Martin is a 2^nd round pick and 7^th round rookie Captain Munnerlyn has impressed in man coverage. There was talk over the off-season Richard Marshall would move from the outside to the nickel and Wilson would play the outside but we haven't seen much of that so far. None of the above separated themselves from the pack as of yet.

After the next preseason game at home against the Ravens some of the answers to these questions might surface. Don't be surprised though if we don't get all the answers until the opener against the Eagles.

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 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: Cornerbacks

MichaelProcton — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 18:02:18 -0000

More photos » by MATT SLOCUM - AP

Rookie CB Sherrod Martin slaps the hand of a receiver aside as he breaks up a pass.

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Since Richard Marshall was drafted in 2006, the Panthers have had the luxury of having "three starters" in their cornerback rotation, with Chris Gamble really stepping up his game and his consistency in the last year or so, and the steady (if sometimes burnable by good speed receivers) veteran Ken Lucas. After Lucas was cut this offseason in a salary-saving move that actually didn't save much money at all (another story for another day), however, a lot of young players are going to be thrust in the spotlight and we'll find out if they're ready for the big time. Below, we'll take a look at the players competing for spots on the roster and how the depth chart is shaping up for the 2009 season.

Base set (2 CBs)

CB1	CB2
Chris Gamble	Richard Marshall
C.J. Wilson	Sherrod Martin
Dante Wesley

Nickel Formation (3 CBs+Jon Beason/Thomas Davis)

CB1 (outside)	Nickel CB (covering slot )	CB2 (outside)
Chris Gamble	Richard Marshall	C.J. WIlson
Dante Wesley	Sherrod Martin	Dante Wesley

You may be surprised not to see recently-signed 7th-round draft pick Captain Munnerlyn on either of these depth charts, but last season, the Panthers carried just five corners, and only three of those played more than a handful of snaps on defense. The Panthers return four corners from their 53-man roster last year in starter Chris Gamble, nickel back Richard Marshall, and special teamers C.J. WIlson and Dante Wesley. However, the team will be replacing its only departed starter in Ken Lucas--who had started for four relatively successful (if somewhat inconsistent) seasons--was cut in a cost-cutting move that only saved about $2.4 million after a trade with the Lions fell through after Lucas refused to play in Detroit. Lucas was signed by the Seahawks--for whom he played his first four years in the league--and is currently listed as a starter opposite Marcus Trufant.

Now, a breakdown of every CB on the Panthers' current 80-man roster:

Chris Gamble (6th year, Ohio State) - 6'1", 200: Gamble has been a relatively successful draft pick of the Panthers after they traded up in the 2004 draft to get him, but last season, he really put it all together. Gamble was never a full-time cornerback in college (playing wideout as well), and, as such, his technique and consistency was a work in progress from the beginning. He had lots of interceptions early in his career (13 in his first two years), but that had a lot to do with the fact that he had good hands and opponents were willing to challenge him. This year, though, even though the picks didn't necessarily come in bunches, he truly began to show those "shutdown corner" abilities every team looks for in their #1 CB. As his teammate and fellow defensive starter Damione Lewis said:

"They stick him out on an island from time to time, and he's making plays out there. Every time they threw to him, the ball is on the ground, it's batted down or he's getting a pick or a big hit. He's (always) doing something where he's making a lot of noise over there."

To reward Gamble for his consistent improvement, the team signed him to a six-year, $53.5 million contract (of which $23 million is guaranteed) during Week 13. This contract places him among the top five CBs in the NFL in terms of salary, but the money wasn't the only reason Gamble wanted to stay a Panther:

"I didn't want to be with another team. I like the organization, the coaching staff, the fans (and) my teammates," Gamble said on the day the contract was announced. "I wanted to get it out of the way."

By the end of the season, Gamble had scored the defense's only TD on a fumble return against the Chargers, led the secondary in tackles with a career-high 101, and tied for the team lead in INTs with three. Hopefully he will not grow complacent with his new deal and will continue to provide performance commensurate with his salary. It will also be interesting to see how Gamble, who has always played as more of a finesse corner, responds to Ron Meeks' system and coaching style, which has always called for a more physical corner who can be a stout and consistent tackler against the run.

Richard Marshall (4th year, Fresno State) - 5'11", 189: Marshall was a second-round pick of the Panthers in 2006 at a time when it seemed that he was blocked by established starters in Gamble and Lucas, but the Panthers have used this to their advantage, believing they've had three starter-quality corners in the event of any injury or the abundance of three-plus wideout sets now popular across the league. As such, Marshall has started 14 games in his young career when stepping in for an injured Gamble or Lucas or when the team opened in a nickel set, although none of those starts came last year. However, he was the only player to reach double figures in tackles on both defense and special teams (a role he's thrived in since he arrived), leading the team with 20 stops on kick and punt coverage. He was somewhat inconsistent last year, particularly down the stretch as he was picked on by opposing quarterbacks. In my opinion, though, he did not receive some deserved blame from fans that was instead ticketed for Lucas. However, from having arrived to the team as something of an egotist, he showed his improving maturity in taking some of the responsibility after the huge performance by Antonio Bryant in the Week 14 MNF game against the Buccaneers. Speaking about one long TD after the game, he said,

"A lot of people think it was Luke's fault; in reality it was my fault. I was playing too close to the line (of scrimmage) and I hesitated and I didn't get back deep. That was my fault. I should never have been that far up.

"I watched film and they showed me where I did wrong and how close I was; I should have been back deeper and I've just got to learn from my mistakes and I'll be there next time."

He also summarized his season after the playoff game against Arizona:

"I feel like last season wasn’t one of my best seasons. I feel I could have played better, tackled better, on defense and special teams."

Still, Marshall will have his chance to show his continued improvement and willingness to learn as he is currently pegged to be an opening-day starter for the first time in his career. However, because of his (relative) lack of size, he's still ticketed to be the inside corner in nickel formations. Hopefully Marshall responds to the challenge of being a true starter for the first time, and perhaps he will be spurred on by the fact that he is an unrestricted free agent after this season. Whether it's for the Panthers or another team, Marshall is about to undergo a one-year audition for a starting role in the league.

C.J. Wilson (3rd year, Baylor University) - 6'1", 195: Wilson is a former seventh-round draft pick who played mostly CB in college but was initially slated to play safety in the NFL. However, that didn't hold, and with the addition of Chris Harris and Charles Godfrey to the safety position, Wilson made the move back to CB and didn't look back. He hasn't played much in his NFL career, logging just eight games total in two years, and just two of them last year on defense, but he did see lots of action in the preseason last year, starting one game against the Eagles on national TV as the nickel back. Wilson was regarded relatively well for a late-round pick coming out of college:

"Wilson is a guy who really stood out to us when we watched all the defensive backs. He’s a versatile player who lined up at both safety and corner in college. Wilson was a real playmaker at Baylor and showed good ball skills on tape."

--Patriots Weekly, Patriots.com

A productive defensive back with above-average ball skills, Wilson nicely projects as a dime back at the next level and will get looks late in the draft.

--Sports Illustrated

At this time, Wilson seems to have impressed the Panthers, as he's currently slated to be the team's first sub corner, ahead of second-round pick Sherrod Martin, according to a blog entry by Darin Gantt of the Rock Hill Herald.

Small note, but an interesting one as they worked on two-minute offense against nickel defense Thursday. Even though he's a starter this year, CB Richard Marshall will maintain his inside responsibilities when they go to three corners. C.J. Wilson will cover an outside receiver when they go to an extra DB. Sherrod Martin's also getting a look at the nickel spot, as the converted safety is working to learn a new position.

Since that statement seemed very firm to me and I was surprised that a second-round pick would be getting reps only as a backup nickel to a starter who he almost certainly won't pass, I asked whether Gantt thought that personnel grouping was pretty final. His response:

I think the nickel look (Marshall inside, with Gamble and Wilson outside) is probably solid, unless someone gets hurt or Munnerlyn freaks out and replaces Wilson. Wesley's a special teamer.

Surprising to see Martin not mentioned at all, but he is learning a new position, and only the season will tell, if Wilson can hold off his challengers as the top sub corner. Chance of making team: 90% (WIlson hasn't shown a great affinity for ST play, so if he shows poorly through camp and falls down the depth chart, he could be cut in favor of Wesley or Munnerlyn, both of whom offer more versatility as special-teamers if not playing much at CB.)

Sherrod Martin (rookie, Troy) - 6'1", 198: Martin was a second-round pick this year of the Panthers--their third overall--and he hopes to be another of many players who has been able to make an impact out of Troy University in the Sun Belt Conference. There are 13 alumni of the school in the NFL, including defensive standouts DeMarcus Ware, Osi Umenyiora, and Leodis McKelvin. Like several other prospects in the last few years, the Panthers did not Shy away from using an early pick on a player they felt would need to make a position change to be most successful in the NFL. Though Martin spent much of his college career at safety (both free and strong), he's being ticketed for cornerback with the Panthers. There were those who thought he was better off staying at safety, but the Panthers were looking for a big, physical corner to replace the departed Ken Lucas. Martin was a productive college player, setting an NCAA record for interceptions in a quarter with three in the second quarter last season against Alcorn State. Martin was as surprised as anyone, as he had not had a single interception in nearly three years:

"I'm speechless. The team did a lot of good things tonight. The defensive line and linebackers hustled and executed. I had the easy job, all I had to do was catch the football."

Martin was also a willing and frequent tackler, setting a school record among DBs (and ranking 10th overall) in Troy history with 191 solo tackles. His 292 total tackles rank 2nd and 14th respectively on those two lists. In his junior season, Martin also set a school record and led his conference with six forced fumbles, a great number for a DB.

Martin is a prospect who is relatively old for a rookie (25), a result of having greyshirted at the beginning of his college career and was granted a medical hardship for the '06-'07 year (what would have been his junior season) following dual shoulder surgeries to repair his AC joints, which are the pivot point which enables the arm to be brought above the head. Impressively, though, Martin had played through these shoulder injuries during his sophomore year. Martin also missed time in his redshirt junior season with a broken hand which required surgery and caused him to sit out a pair of games.

Finally healthy last year, Martin came out strong, establishing a new career high in tackles (94) and making the All-Sun Belt first team. After the season, he was invited to the Senior Bowl, where he made three tackles and broke up a pass for the winning South team. Martin also had an impressive showing at the combine, running a faster-than-expected 4.52 in the fourty (a mark he bettered with a 4.46 at his Pro Day) that showed off speed that would translate to the corner position. In addition, he showed very well in the agility drills, posting the second-best short shuttle time of all players at the combine and tying for third among all players in the three-cone drill.

As a player, Martin is considered aggressive and physical, with strong tackling ability as well. He is also unafraid to deliver the big hit, and his speed and agility project well at any position in the secondary. However, there were those who question his instincts and ability to make the proper reads while up at the line as a cornerback rather than back off the line as a safety. There is also some concern that Martin is a "workout warrior" whose tested physical abilities do not always translate to the field. Finally, though he got through his senior year healthy and has shown the toughness to play through pain in the past, his injuries cannot be ignored.

Martin was drafted by the Panthers as a player whose physical abilities were a bit ahead of his football skills, particularly at the cornerback position, where he played little in college. Because of this, it will be important to be patient with him, as his current dime back spot on the depth chart would be a disappointment for many given his draft position in the second round, particularly with a CB picked two spots later (Sean Smith) running as a starter for the Dolphins. However, Martin's skillset fits well into what Ron Meeks asks of his cornerbacks and he should project as no less than a nickel back with the potential to play safety if needed who can be a standout as a special teams gunner (a role he played and succeeded in at Troy), an important ability given the need to replace Richard Marshall's reps at the position, which will fall off now that he is a starter. Chance of making team: 100% (even if Martin does not win any more than the dime back job out of training camp, he'll be put on special teams and given a chance to develop; a 2nd-round pick won't be cut.)

Dante Wesley (8th year, Arkansas-Pine Bluff) - 6'1", 210: Though Wesley has never been a starting-caliber player (his two career starts came in his first two years for some pretty weak Panthers secondaries), he's found his niche in the league, never playing in fewer than 13 games through a seven-year career outside of 2006, when a broken collarbone limited him to three games. Wesley ranked not only ranked third last year in special teams tackles with 11, but he was the only Panthers special-team player to both force and recover a fumble. His TD return in Week 17 against the Saints was not only the only special teams TD for Carolina on the season, it helped provide the winning margin in a very tight game. Though Wesley mostly plays on special teams, he also has the size and ability to play safety in addition to his listed cornerback position, which may allow him to keep a roster spot even if Munnerlyn impresses. Chance of making team: 70%

Captain Munnerlyn (rookie, South Carolina) - 5'8", 186: Munnerlyn was a surprising early-entrant after his junior year who was disappointed to fall all the way to the 7th round after being told by the NFL advisory committee that he'd likely be picked in the first three rounds of this year's draft. The most notable thing about him is probably his lack of size: at 5'8", he will likely struggle against NFL-size wideouts, and while his speed is good, it didn't time at the elite level at the combine, where he ran a 4.51, despite having reportedly run as fast as 4.35 last summer. He did improve his time to a 4.41 at his Pro Day, but many scouts had already written him off after his poor combine showing. Many were surprised that Munnerlyn ended up declaring for the draft because, after a good sophomore year (in which he made first team All-SEC), he struggled at times last year, both on and off the field. Though he played a lot of zone throughout his college career, the signs he had shown of man-to-man shutdown ability seemed to fade some last year, registering no interceptions last year after racking up five in the previous two. In addition, Munnerlyn was benched by Steve Spurrier on two occasions last year, once against Mississippi for missing a team meeting and for the second half against Clemson along with fellow secondary member Emmanuel Cook. Spurrier had the following to say after the game:

"A few guys aren't playing quite like they did early in the year. I think that was obvious. It's disappointing. Football season's a long time. Teams either get better or worse. I thought we were getting better after the Arkansas game, and then it seems like we've taken a down turn since then."

Still, there are plenty of things to like about Munnerlyn and his game. In spite of his short frame, he's got solid strength and he plays tough, allowing him to be a pretty consistent tackler. His closing speed and change-of-direction ability help him overcome his lack of size. In addition, he has solid return ability on both kicks and punts. He had a game last season in which he returned both a blocked field goal for an 81-yard touchdown and a kick for an 84-yard touchdown (the longest kick return for South Carolina in more than ten years.) Consistency and awareness are two things Munnerlyn needs to work on, as he was beaten by receivers with precise route-running and NFL-style double moves. He also missed time in each of his three seasons with injuries, including an arm infection, a broken foot, and flu-like symptoms.

Munnerlyn is an interesting prospect who likely could have improved his draft stock by returning for his senior year, but a seemingly contentious relationship between himself and Steve Spurrier helped encourage him to begin his pro career early. Though I don't see Munnerlyn making the roster unless he can win the return job, he looks like a good practice squad candidate who could be a sold contributor in a year or two. Chance of making roster: 20%

D.J. Clark (rookie, Idaho St.) - 6'0", 200: Clark is a player with mid-round productivity, but late-round/UFA measurables. A college safety and a member of last season's pre-season All Big Sky team and the second team in the conference after the season, he is not particularly big or fast (4.63 speed), but has good hands (leading his team in interceptions for all of his four years in college) and plays with high intensity. His strength is consisdered to be in man-to-man coverage rather than zone, but he is a willing tackler with solid technique in coverage. I've also read that he can return kicks, but I can't confirm that anywhere. Idaho State apparently doesn't do a great job of archiving their stats. Chance of making team: 1% (and that's assuming he can compete to return.)

Poll

Will Sherrod Martin be able to adjust to his new position and overtake C.J. Wilson as the third corner for the Panthers?

Yes

169 votes

No

54 votes

It won't be either one of those two (explain below)

9 votes

232 votes | Poll has closed

Panther Paw Prints - June OTA's Edition

Jaxon — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:34:50 -0000

More photos » by RICK HAVNER - AP

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With the June OTA's wrapped up here are some recent articles of interest. MP already pointed out this first one but I think its worth mentioning again.

Darin Gantt's Panthers Blog - OTA Day 7 | The Herald - Rock Hill, SC
Small note, but an interesting one as they worked on two-minute offense against nickel defense Thursday. Even though he's a starter this year, CB Richard Marshall will maintain his inside responsibilities when they go to three corners. C.J. Wilson will cover an outside receiver when they go to an extra DB. Second-round pick CB Sherrod Martin's also getting a look at the nickel spot, as the converted safety is working to learn a new position.

Hopefully this is more a vote of confidence in CJ Wilson more than anything else. It the Panthers could find even a starting nickel back or even outside corner in the 7th round would be quite a find.

The Associated Press: Panthers' Beavers hopes to make small-college jump
"I think I can get faster," Beavers said. "Hopefully I'll get a chance to prove myself."

If this guy goes any faster he'll have to get a license plate. I'm sure he will get the chance he is looking for but even if he shines he is still longer odds than the horse that just finished last at the Belmont last weekend.

Godfrey seeks breakthrough second season | The Herald - Rock Hill, SC
"Now is kind of the time, I'm looking at it as ‘No excuses,'" Godfrey said. "You're not a rookie anymore, you've played a year, there's no excuses, you go out and play and make plays, and that's the bottom line."

This article points out one of my questions about Godfrey from his rookie season, where was the 'ball-hawk'? A single INT and a handful of PD's was not too impressive over 16 games. Godfrey does seem to have the skills to get a lot better so combined with Meeks influence hopefully we'll see some FS play we haven't seen in years.

Panthers' run game gets a key cog back - RG Keydrick Vincent | CharlotteObserver.com
"What they do on offense is what I'm built for," he said. "I'm a run blocker. I can pass block a little bit, but we're going to out-physical you. That's what I'm made for. That's what I do. I'm not a finesse guy."

"I'm not a finesse guy", I LOVE it. Vincent had to be a 'non-fit' in Arizona's passing offense but he was a great fit here. I think those predictions that rookie Duke Robinson might unseat Vincent are baseless. He's healthy again and given how well he and Otah dominated on the right side I think the motto "If it ain't broke don't fix it" fits here well.

Panthers rookie QB hopes to shake last year's struggles | cantwell, think, quarterback - Sports - The Star Online : The Newspaper of Cleveland County
(Concerning Hunter Cantwell) "I think he's shown some maturity and shown he can deal with the veteran pressure," Muhammad said. "He looks comfortable. I think he's out here throwing the ball well. I think every rookie is going to make some mistakes and that is a given, that's expected. But what you want is a guy who can eliminate some of those mistakes and learn from the coaches and not make the same mistakes over and over again. I think he's a guy who can probably do that."

He'd have to set the world on fire to make the team buthe could hold up for a season on the practice squad. He's the kind of guy if things go well might get a shot down the road when Jake retires.

Otah says Panthers rookie DE Brown has 'unexpected strength' | brown, otah, right - Sports - The Star Online : The Newspaper of Cleveland County
"Playing against a guy like Jeff is going to put me ahead of the learning curve," Brown said. "He's not only big, but he's good at what he does. He's been in the league. It's really making me work on my technique because some of the things I did in college don't necessarily work. He's making me work and sharpen my tools."

For a guy like Otah to say Brown is strong is a pleasant surprise though he may be referring 'leverage' strong and not necessarily 'bench press' strong. Hey, thats how the smaller DE's survive in this league, by using leverage versus pure braun. Add in some strength and you have the next coming of Dwight Freeney (I know, the analogy is over-used). If Brown can play the run too then pencil him in on the left side for years to come.

Top 5 starters in danger of losing their job next season

Revshawn — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 05:03:14 -0000

1. Brad Hoover FB

Don't get me wrong, in spite of his mistakes during the season Brad Hoover had this job locked up. Then in round 4 of the NFL Draft the Panthers picked up Tony Fiammetta, whom most scouts had declared the best fullback in the draft. He's a solid player with strong blocking, rushing, and pass catching abilities. I believe that if he impresses in camp that the Panthers will go for the younger, cheaper talent. Brad Hoover will be 33 in November, and by cutting him the Panthers will save 540k against the salary cap.

2. Tyler Brayton DE

With Everette Brown being taken in the 2nd round as a result of a trade, Tyler Brayton is going to have to put his rear in gear in order to keep his spot. Unless he pulls off a miracle in training camp and turns himself into a modern day Rocky, the Panthers are going to go with the smaller rookie in an effort to turn him into another Dwight Freeney.

3. Richard Marshall CB

Richard Marshall will start Week 1 with Ken Lucas gone, but other teams are not going to be impressed with him right off. Until he proves himself, he's going to be a guy with a big x on his back. Teams will throw to his side of the field early and often, and I wouldn't be suprised if the team yanks him in favor a bigger corner like Sherrod Martin if he struggles on a consistant basis. We might even see the two corners splitting time on the field, who knows?

4. Na'il Diggs OLB

Here's where things start to get a bit iffy, but irregardless this is a Top 5 article. We have arguably 5 starting caliber linebackers. Jon Beason and Thomas Davis are two young locks right off the bat, and Na'il Diggs is your old, experienced veteran. The two wildcard players that could be starters are 2nd year player Dan Connor, and Landon Johnson. Dan Connor has a chance to rise up and prove to everyone that he is the next Dan Morgan (minus the injuries). If he can do that, he just might take down Na'il Diggs and secure his spot. He might have done so last year, but he was injured for the season in Week 3 so we never got a chance to see if he could do it late in the year.

Dan Conner is pretty much the successor of Na'il Diggs in the future, but it's a matter of time. Diggs is still a tremendous player and he still produces, it's only a question of whether he can maintain it or not over a 16 game schedule. If he cannot, then Connor might sneak in there late in the year and get some playing time.

5. Dante Rosario TE or Muhsin Muhammad

Arguments can be made on both sides. Moose is getting old and Dwayne Jarrett is in his 3rd breakout year, so he might rise and take control. On the other hand TE Gary Barnidge was known as a great pass-catcher coming out of college, and if his skills have matured in the next level we might have another target on the field for Jake Delhomme. I'm going to open this one up for a poll. Your thoughts please!

Poll

Which player has the better chance of being replaced?

TE Dante Rosario

715 votes

WR Muhsin Muhammad

187 votes

902 votes | Poll has closed