Panthers Picking Newton Would Be Absurd

Contrary to popular belief, QB Cameron Newton is not, nor should be, the number one pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.  He’s not even the best quarterback.

The Carolina Panthers have bene on the clock since Week 17 of the 2010 regular season.  The Panthers and fans everywhere had their hearts set on Stanford QB Andrew Luck.  Luck had different plans.

Once Luck announced he would stay in school, the best plan for the Panthers was to trade down and gain draft picks.  There is always one team that is willing to jump up and take a risk on a player.

Sometimes teams stay in that top spot, and take a risk.  This, however, is not one of those times.

Some mock drafts have the Panthers taking the Heisman Trophy winner with the number one overall pick.  However, he does not help your team immediately, unless you are trying to sell tickets.

Newton may be a NFL quarterback, but he is not ready yet.  The Panthers are in bigger need of a defensive lineman, such as Auburn DT Nick Fairley or Clemson DE Da’Quan Bowers (who could be the replacement the Panthers have been looking for since DE Julius Peppers).

The Panthers do need a quarterback.  However, you have already committed millions of dollars to a project quarterback in Jimmy Clausen.  Unless there was a ‘can’t miss’ prospect, like Luck, out there, the team needed to wait for a later round.

This team would be better served to sign or trade for a quarterback such as Carson Palmer, a veteran who Clausen could study under for two or three seasons.

While Cincinnati’s asking price is probably too much, that is the type of quarterback this team needs: a veteran who won’t lose the game, won’t make the silly mistakes, and can teach.  You are not asking this quarterback to be your franchise, just a stop-gap to find your franchise.

That franchise, is not Cameron Newton.  While he is exciting to watch, one of the best quarterbacks ever to play college football, that doesn’t translate to NFL success.

My advice to the Panthers:  trade down and build your team, don’t sacrifice success for ticket sales, and most importantly find someone that fits your team, not someone that could run your team.

Carolina Panthers 2010 Offseason Analysis

Now that the first weekend of the 2010 NFL free agency is over, we can look and assess the next step for teams to make.

There is no question that one of the most news-worthy teams from the first weekend was the Carolina Panthers.  The only problem for fan is that they have not been in the news for the reasons they were hoping for.

The first big step the Panthers made was deciding not to apply their franchise tag to defensive end Julius Peppers for the second consecutive year.  Peppers then signed a 6-year deal worth $91.5 million, $42 million of which is guaranteed, with the Chicago Bears.

Following the loss of the elite defensive end was the releasing of quarterback Jake Delhomme.  This move surprised many people, including Delhomme himself.  The Panthers decision to apply the highest possible tender to restricted free agent quarterback Matt Moore, valuing him at first and a third round picks solidifies the fact that Moore will be the leader of the offense for the “Cardiac Cats” in 2010.

Even more baffling were the releases of veteran defenders from 2009.  Defensive tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu was looking forward to his return to Carolina after rupturing his Achilles tendon in training camp.  Instead, he was released, along with fellow defensive tackle and 2009 starter Damione Lewis.

These moves leave the Panthers with no returner from the original starting defensive line from last season.  The fourth player being defensive end Taylor Brayton, who is an unrestricted free agent for 2010 and is still available.

The Panthers also cut veteran linebackers Na’il Diggs and Landon Johnson.  Diggs and Johnson combined for 59 tackles in 2009.  This leaves notable depth issues at linebacker, as well as the starting position needing to be filled.

So far in the offseason, Carolina has signed one player, defensive tackle Ed Johnson.

Where do the Panthers go from here?  There are notable voids to be filled.  Even with the high tenders placed on quarterback Matt Moore and linebacker Thomas Davis, both positions still need depth.  And with the releasing of Lewis and Kemoeatu, defensive tackle becomes an even bigger need.

At quarterback, I expect to see the Panthers look for a future quarterback in the draft.  Look for a third or fourth round pick to be used.  The biggest and most likely name to watch for is Central Michigan’s Dan LeFevour.  In addition to a rookie, look for a veteran signing, perhaps Brodie Croyle or Josh McCown, who was with the Panthers in 2009.

Wide receiver is still a glaring need for the Panthers, as their passing offense is lifeless and monotonous.   Steve Smith is still worth a few good plays, but without a weapon on the opposite side of Smith, opposing defenses can hone in on Smith, rendering him useless to Moore.  Look for a second round pick to be used on a playmaker.  Mardy Gilyard from Cincinnati and Brandon LaFell from LSU would be nice fits.

The defensive line issues will likely be solved in free agency.  However, the only defensive end in free agency this season that would have made a difference was Aaron Kampman, but he recently signed with Jacksonville.  There are reports that the Panthers have interest in former New York Jets’ defensive end Marques Douglas.  I also expect a run after defensive end Raheem Brock, who was coached by current defensive coordinator Ron Meeks in Indianapolis.  If both are signed, Douglas may slide inside to defensive tackle to bring more athleticism to the position.

The linebacker position should not be as interesting to outsiders.  Panthers’ fans however should look for James Anderson and Dan Connor to battle for the starting roll opposite Thomas Davis.  I do fully believe a draft pick will be use for depth.  Florida State’s Dakoda Watson or South Carolina’s Eric Norwood would fit the system very well and have the athletic ability to succeed quickly.

Other positions need depth, such as offensive guard and middle linebacker, if Dan Connor slides to outside linebacker permanently.

However, I feel strongly that if these moves are made by the Panthers successfully, they can salvage an offseason that was otherwise depressing for fans.

Stay tuned to Section 26 Sports for more Panthers updates as the happen.

NFL 2010 Offseason Interesting Player Storylines Part Two

In part two of our offseason player preview, we look at a few players that make less headlines, and Terrell Owens.

There are other interesting offseason stories aside from Julius Peppers and Donovan McNabb.  These story lines will be good entertainment for fans and writers alike.  In fact, the owners and coaches may even have some fun with these guys in the offseason.

1. Brandon Marshall, wide receiver – Marshall has made it very clear he wanted out of Denver last season.  He recently sited Darrent Williams’ death as another reason for requesting to leave.  Marshall finally gets his wish as he enters free agency this year as a restricted free agent.  His intentions and desires remain a question.  Some players just want to go to a contender, some want money and fame, and some want more playtime and the ability to start.  Marshall is a little short in the money department, but I do not see that as his deciding factor.  He will most likely just look for a team he feels comfortable with that can succeed.  The teams I expect to make a run for him are the Rams, Panthers, Dolphins, Ravens, and Jaguars.  All of those teams are in need of a young, play-making wide receiver and weapons for their respective quarterbacks.  In the end, I expect the Ravens to get the final word on Marshall.
2. Darren Sharper, safety – Darren Sharper was one of the biggest reasons the Saints won the NFC Championship and Super Bowl XLIV.  He transformed their defense from a laughing stock to a strength.  The issue for Sharper is his impact could be over as soon as it peaks.  He enters free agency as a coveted veteran still able of being a defensive force.  New Orleans has already reported that they are not applying the franchise tag to Sharper.  He has expressed his desire to return to New Orleans, but also his preference for a multi-year contract.  I expect the Saints to offer Sharper a two-year contract to try to lock him up.  If they do not come to an agreement soon, Sharper will test the free agency and would likely get a lot of attention.  I could honestly see any team in the NFL making a run for him, but at the age of 34 he would likely not sign with a team that is not in contention for his second straight Super Bowl ring.
3. Thomas Jones, running back – Thomas Jones provides a very interesting, and unfortunate story for 2010.  He is expected to be released by the Jets soon and that would open many doors for both parties.  The Jets struck gold with their rookie running back Shonn Greene, and have one of the league’s more serviceable and versatile backups, Leon Washington returning from injury.  Jones is arguably the most underrated player in the NFL for the past five seasons.  In each of those seasons, he has eclipsed the thousand-yard mark and only turned the ball over four times.  His touchdown count was low until the past two seasons, scoring 27 times.  He is a work horse running back that can provide a reliable option for any team in need of a powerful running back.  His career is nearing the end, but he is a perfect candidate for a tandem backfield.  A return to Chicago is not out of the question, but look at many of the same teams listed in part one for Tomlinson and Westbrook.  The Lions could always use more reliability on offense and the Browns need someone to run the ball.  Jones has spent his whole career in cold weather, which works in favor of both teams.
4. Terrell Owens, wide receiver – As always, Terrell Owens will provide some offseason entertainment.  He knows he is nearing his career’s end and, with any common sense, will play the free agency accordingly.  His stint in Buffalo was a waste.  Owens has reached the point in his career when he is a second option and should focus more on being a possession receiver.  If he gets his head on straight and proves to teams he is ready for that stage of his career, he could get a good contract.  Look at teams that need a second option or simply another weapon for their quarterback.  The Panthers and Jaguars come to mind.  Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme needs as many weapons as possible and Jacksonville has not had a solid receiver since Jimmy Smith.  Owens would be a nice compliment to Steve Smith in Carolina or Mike Sims-Walker in Jacksonville.  Also keep an eye on teams that have no viable receiving threats and would take a chance on such a “high risk, high reward” player like Owens, including the Bears, Rams and Buccaneers.
5. Vincent Jackson, wide receiver – Vincent Jackson is an underrated receiver in the NFL.  He becomes a free agent this season and is in line for a significant pay increase.  He deserves a multi-year, high salary contract.  I expect the Chargers to make an offer to match his capabilities, but if they do not offer that, things could get interesting.  He is in a similar situation as that of Brandon Marshall.  He is looking for a pay increase, but with an addition of success.  Jackson is a solid number one receiver and will go to a team as such.  Look for the Bears and Jaguars to make a push, as well as a few others.  However, you can expect him to return to San Diego, only with a bigger bank statement.

These are perfect examples of why the NFL offseason is so exciting.  We as fans are in line for a lot of fun.  The next few months will be eventful and the entire landscape of the NFL could change.

NFL 2010 Offseason Interesting Player Storylines Part One

Many key players in the NFL could be on the move this offseason.  Pro Bowlers such as Julius Peppers, Donovan McNabb and Antrel Rolle are just a few of the big names that could see new teammates in 2010.

I want to take a look at some of these players and give some insight to where they could be next year.

Note that these are not all of the important free agents out there.  These ten players are simply some of the players that I feel will be interesting to watch in the offseason.

1. Julius Peppers, defensive end – Peppers was tagged as the Panthers’ franchise player in 2009 earning him over $17 million that season.  Reports have been released that Carolina is not looking to apply the franchise tag to Peppers in 2010.  However, if they change their mind it would cost the Panthers over $22 million.  Peppers has made it known that he wants to play for a contender, preferably in a 3-4 defensive scheme as a rush linebacker.  The Arizona Cardinals fit that bill perfectly.  They have won the NFC West crown the past two years and run the 3-4 defense.  On top of that, quarterback Kurt Warner and defensive end Bertrand Berry have both retired.  These moves, coupled with the expected release of free safety Antrel Rolle will free up the finances required to sign a player like Julius Peppers.  There is a need for a rush linebacker like Peppers on Arizona’s defense and the pieces seem to be falling into place.  Expect the Cardinals to make a run for this highly-touted defensive star.  Other teams to watch are the New England Patriots, Washington Redskins and Miami Dolphins.
2. Donovan McNabb, quarterback – McNabb is still under contract with the Philadelphia Eagles and has announced that he will stay an Eagle next season.  However, there have been rumors of the Eagles looking to trade McNabb while he has value.  After all, McNabb is in the tail end of his career and the Eagles may want to hit the market while he still has value.  The team mentioned most in regards to receiving the quarterback is the Minnesota Vikings.  This of course hinges on Brett Favre’s decision to return or retire.  If Favre does decide to retire, I expect the Vikings to make a hard run at McNabb.  If Favre returns, clearly McNabb will not be considered and would then likely stay in Philadelphia.  However, the Eagles could entertain other deals.  Keep in mind, they have a full competent backup and future quarterback in Kevin Kolb and they would still have Michael Vick on the roster.  Expect McNabb to be in Eagle green or Viking purple, but do not count out teams like the St. Louis Rams or even the Oakland Raiders.
3. LaDainian Tomlinson, running back – The San Diego Chargers released Tomlinson Monday afternoon, likely because they feel is it not worth the value, including a $2 million bonus for next season that he would cost them.  While he was one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, he is nearing the end and is now worth no more than a backup running back role.  I expect him to either end up playing for a team that is a legitimate contender, such as the New Orleans Saints or the New England Patriots, or a team that has a young, established running back and needs veteran leadership, like the Detroit Lions or Chicago Bears.  Or if he is lucky, he could get one last chance as a lead back on a young team.  The teams I look for trying to obtain his services are the Cleveland Browns or the Kansas City Chiefs.  Both teams are young on offense and have a young running back with a bright future (James Davis and Jamaal Charles respectively).  This of course leaves a big hole for the Chargers, which I expect to be filled in the first round of the NFL draft by C.J. Spiller or Jahvid Best.
4. Brian Westbrook, running back – The Eagles released their all-time leader in yards after scrimmage early Tuesday afternoon.  Westbrook is in a very similar situation to Tomlinson.  He is plagued with injuries and nearing the end of his career as a team’s number-one running back.  Like Tomlinson, he will be looking for a team that can use him in a leadership and backup running back role.  Many of the same teams apply for Westbrook as well.  Look for the Chiefs, Browns and Bears to try for his services.  But do not be surprised if the Texans or Lions also place bids.  Westbrook provides a strong leadership presence for young offenses and would be a great mentor for young backs like Kevin Smith, Steve Slaton and Matt Forte.
5. Antrel Rolle, safety – While the Cardinals have not officially released Rolle as of yet, it is expected because of the $4 million bonus he is due next year.  Not having to pay this money next season will free up the finances for an elite player like Julius Peppers, which would be more of a need for the Cardinals in 2010.  This story is a bit more of a surprise because of Rolle’s history in the Pro Bowl, his ability to make plays in both pass and run defenses, and his relative youth (he is 27 years old).  Rolle still has quite a few good years ahead of him.  He is one of the elite free safeties in the league and will make a splash in the free agency if he is released.  Many teams in the league could use his talents, but look for the Panthers, Texans and Seahawks to make big bids.  The Panthers had a weakness deep in the middle of the field, and signing Rolle would allow them to move Sherrod Martin back to cornerback, his natural position.  The Panthers would have depth and versatility, not to mention the money needed to pay him after Peppers leaves, freeing up over $17 million in salary.

Check back for part two, as we look at five more players that should have interesting offseasons.