Can Panthers Live Up to the Hype?

The Carolina Panthers came within one game of going to the Super Bowl last season, and appear to be the popular choice to unseat the Seahawks in the NFC. On paper the team seems to be stronger than last year, assuming some of their injury prone can spend more time on the field this year. Adding wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson to the offense was a big offseason move because he should take some focus away from Steve Smith and is more of a possession-type receiver, the perfect complement to Smith. But a history of injuries concerns me with this team.

The Panthers drafted running back DeAngelo Williams because of DeShaun Foster's inability to stay healthy. If Foster goes down again, which seems to be an annual event, the Panthers will be turning to the rookie to fill the hole.

Middle linebacker Dan Morgan is another guy who, when on the field, can be a devastating force. But he's missed 25 games over five years, and has never played more than 13 games in a season. How much can he be counted on? Same goes for DT Kris Jenkins, who has missed most of the last two seasons. In his case, it's not only a matter of if can he stay healthy. You have to wonder whether the guy can still play at the same level as prior to the injuries after being sidelined for so long.

At this point, the Panthers are a very solid team, but I think they are being overhyped a little at this point. They should compete for the NFC South crown, but I don't think they will dominate it. Read more...