What's New?
The Carolina Panthers were a popular pick to be Super Bowl contenders in 2006, but struggles in the running game combined with a down year by quarterback Jake Delhomme led to a disappointing 8-8 record. The team didn’t do a whole lot, however, to kick-start this offense other than bringing in former Cleveland Browns line coach Jeff Davidson to take over as offesive coordinator.
The Panthers did scoop up former No. 1 overall draft pick David Carr after he was released by the Houston Texans. Carr, who never came close to living up to his lofty draft status, should be a solid backup to Delhomme, and could potentially push him if he struggles again in 2007.
With the safety position a major concern, Carolina traded with Chicago Chris Harris, who will likely start at strong safety. They also picked up journeyman Deke Cooper to add some depth and competition at free safety.
NFL Draft Picks
1st Round - Jon Beason, LB Miami (FL)
2nd Round - Dwayne Jarrett, WR USC
2nd Round - Ryan Kalil, C USC
3rd Round - Charles Johnson, DE Georgia
4th Round - Ryne Robinson, WR Miami (OH)
5th Round - Dante Rosario, TE Oregon
5th Round - Tim Shaw, LB Penn State
7th Round - C.J. Wilson, CB Baylor
Who's Gone?
The retirement of Mike Minter was a blow to a defense that was already thin at the safety position, and even with the offseason signings, remains an area of concern. The defense also said goodbye to popular linebacker Chris Draft and backup defensive end Al Wallace.
In a bit of a surprising move on offense, the Panthers released wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson following the 2006 season. And as we alluded to before, offensive coordinator Dan Henning was replaced, and Tight end Kris Mangum along with backup quarterback Chris Weinke were also shown the door.
What Needs to Change?
The Panthers must develop some sort of running attack that will restore some consistency to the offense. So much of what Carolina tries to do is dependent on how well they move the ball on the ground. Delhomme also need to revert to his 2005 form, when he seemed to have the Midas touch, especially late in games. Obviously, he is much more comfortable when opposing defenses have to key on the run, and should benefit greatly if the ground game gets going. And with DeShaun Foster and [linkurl=]Deangelo Williams in the backfield, there is no reason this team shouldn’t be able to run the ball.
Under Pressure to Perform
Jake Delhomme - With David Carr presently behind him on the depth chart, things could get interesting if Delhomme struggles again this year. Rated as the league’s worst third-down passer in 2006, he simply has to start making more plays or there will soon be whispers calling for his benching and the promotion of the once highly touted Carr.
John Fox - When you’re the head coach of what is perceived to be a Super Bowl contender, you can’t afford to miss the playoffs. Doing it two seasons in a row could be fatal to Fox’s future employment with the Panthers. If things don’t improve this year, shaking up the coaching staff won’t be good enough next time around.
2006 Rankings
Overall Offense - 24th (307.7)
Rushing Offense - 24th (103.7)
Passing Offense - 15th (204.0)
Overall Defense - 7th (296.1)
Rushing Defense - 11h (108.6)
Passing Defense - 4th (187.5)
Prediction - This is largely the same team that was thought highly of heading into the 2006 season, but after last year’s debacle few are picking them to go far this year. This is still a talented team, however, and should bounce right back into the playoff hunt this year behind a strong defense. And if they get a strong performance from their rushing attack, they could be a dangerous come January.
Record:9-7 and second in the NFC South
