Panthers cut two

The Carolina Panthers cut MLB Dan Morgan and OG Mike Wahle yesterday in an effort to clear up some cap space.

Morgan's departure saves the Panthers about $2 million, while releasing Wahle will save around $4 million.

Cutting Morgan makes sense both on the field and in the salary cap. There was always a slim chance Carolina could move Morgan to the outside and keep Jon Beason in the middle, but this felt like the right time for the player and organization to part ways.

I did expect an offensive lineman to be cut, but was surprised it was Wahle. He's been one of the most reliable and consistent linemen, but with Carolina looking to make a splash in free agency and the draft, this was a cost-cutting move.

How could the offensive line look next season? There are a bunch of different scenarios, and most revolve around whether or not the Panthers draft or sign an offensive tackle.

With the roster now, my best guess to the starting offensive line right now would be (from left tackle to right tackle): Travelle Wharton, Justin Hartwig, Ryan Kalil, Jeremy Bridges, Jordan Gross.

Keep in mind, though, that both Wharton and Gross need to be resigned, and general manager Marty Hurney suggested there may be more moves along the offensive line.

I'd expect Carolina to sign a tackle or draft one in the first round, with the intent of playing him on the left side. Then they'd resign Gross to play right tackle. I think Ryan Kalil will be the opening-day center, and I'd expect either Wharton or Bridges - perhaps both - to be gone next season.