Here's an interesting story from Steve Reed at the Gaston Gazette.
http://www.carolinagrowl.com/Read.aspx?Story=523
It's a good read, but the Cliffs Notes version is that the Panthers may have different starters at all five offensive line positions next season.
Apparently, Carolina's brass is interested in Boise State tackle Ryan Clady. The suggestion in this story is that a rookie first-round draft pick would play right tackle, which would move Jordan Gross back to left tackle. Again.
Ryan Kalil is penciled in at center, with Travelle Wharton at left guard and Justin Hartwig/Geoff Hangartner/Keydrick Vincent at right guard.
I don't understand this thought process. Marty Hurney and John Fox were both adamant about the offensive line needing some stability to thrive. So why is - again, potentially - mixing up the entire line a good idea? That's the opposite of stability.
Showing posts with label Carolina Panthers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Carolina Panthers. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Don't expect Wharton to play guard
The popular theory around the Carolinas is that the Panthers resigned Travelle Wharton, who played left tackle last season, with the intent of moving him inside to a guard position. Carolina would then spend a high draft pick - or a lot of money in free agency - on a left tackle.
To me, logic seems to dictate Wharton will remain at left tackle next year and in the future.
Think about it this way: Carolina just cut Mike Wahle, an effective yet injury-plagued guard, to save about $4 million toward its salary cap. Wharton signed a six-year deal with $36 million. I'm not sure if that contract is backloaded or carries incentive clauses (I assume it does), but it doesn't make much financial sense to give someone $6 million a year to play guard, especially when you just cut someone making $4 million.
Compare Wharton's contract to some of the best guards in the league: Steve Hutchinson, who signed a mammoth deal with Minnesota, has a cap figure of $6.7 million. Buffalo's Derrick Dockery has a cap figure of $6.8 million a year. Pittsburgh's Alan Faneca, one of the best offensive linemen in the league, will probably leave Pittsburgh because the Steelers - who currently pay him about $6 million a year - can't afford, or don't want, to resign him.
Wharton played left tackle last year, and struggled at times. But he underwent a major knee operation the year prior, and offensive linemen usually do much better the second year after a surgery. Especially with right tackle Jordan Gross unsigned, I don't think the Panthers have the luxury to pay a guard that much money.
To me, logic seems to dictate Wharton will remain at left tackle next year and in the future.
Think about it this way: Carolina just cut Mike Wahle, an effective yet injury-plagued guard, to save about $4 million toward its salary cap. Wharton signed a six-year deal with $36 million. I'm not sure if that contract is backloaded or carries incentive clauses (I assume it does), but it doesn't make much financial sense to give someone $6 million a year to play guard, especially when you just cut someone making $4 million.
Compare Wharton's contract to some of the best guards in the league: Steve Hutchinson, who signed a mammoth deal with Minnesota, has a cap figure of $6.7 million. Buffalo's Derrick Dockery has a cap figure of $6.8 million a year. Pittsburgh's Alan Faneca, one of the best offensive linemen in the league, will probably leave Pittsburgh because the Steelers - who currently pay him about $6 million a year - can't afford, or don't want, to resign him.
Wharton played left tackle last year, and struggled at times. But he underwent a major knee operation the year prior, and offensive linemen usually do much better the second year after a surgery. Especially with right tackle Jordan Gross unsigned, I don't think the Panthers have the luxury to pay a guard that much money.
Monday, February 11, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Panthers' season slipping away
It looks like the Carolina Panthers are destined for third place in the NFC South.
Tampa Bay has played consistent football all season (and already owns a win over Carolina), and the surging Saints appear to have their offense in top form. The Panthers, meanwhile, have shown no ability to get the ball to Steve Smith in the crunch (or at all) and may start Matt Moore at quarterback next week.
Let's get this straight. Jake Delhomme goes out with a season-ending elbow injury, David Carr gets his back messed up, Vinny Testaverde's improbable return gives the Panthers a win, but then he gets injured, and Carr suffers a concussion against the Titans.
Yes, there are lots of things Carolina could and should be doing better, but this might be the most injured team in the league overall. Remember, in addition to the quarterbacks, Dan Morgan has missed lots of time (shock), Mike Rucker is coming off a major knee injury and several other players have been nursing minor-but-nagging injuries throughout the season.
It's been a weird year for Carolina. I thought the win against St. Louis in the opening week would set the tone for an 11-5 season. When the Panthers lost the next week to Houston, I was sure they were a 6-10 team. Therein lies another problem. The team is so inconsistent week to week.
This week? It looks like a 7-9 team.
Tampa Bay has played consistent football all season (and already owns a win over Carolina), and the surging Saints appear to have their offense in top form. The Panthers, meanwhile, have shown no ability to get the ball to Steve Smith in the crunch (or at all) and may start Matt Moore at quarterback next week.
Let's get this straight. Jake Delhomme goes out with a season-ending elbow injury, David Carr gets his back messed up, Vinny Testaverde's improbable return gives the Panthers a win, but then he gets injured, and Carr suffers a concussion against the Titans.
Yes, there are lots of things Carolina could and should be doing better, but this might be the most injured team in the league overall. Remember, in addition to the quarterbacks, Dan Morgan has missed lots of time (shock), Mike Rucker is coming off a major knee injury and several other players have been nursing minor-but-nagging injuries throughout the season.
It's been a weird year for Carolina. I thought the win against St. Louis in the opening week would set the tone for an 11-5 season. When the Panthers lost the next week to Houston, I was sure they were a 6-10 team. Therein lies another problem. The team is so inconsistent week to week.
This week? It looks like a 7-9 team.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Carolina's new quarterback
I only have one thing to say about the Carolina Panthers signing Vinny Testaverde (43 years old) to be their backup quarterback.
At least it's not Aaron Brooks.
At least it's not Aaron Brooks.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Chin coming to Carolina?
Although not quite as reputable or respected as one of the large media networks, ProFootballTalk.com is reporting that former Steelers coach Bill Cowher has already been in contact with three teams about returning to coach football next season - and the Carolina Panthers are one of them.
The report is about halfway down the page, and was posted at 4:47 p.m. two days ago.
The Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins are the other two teams who have reportedly spoken with Cowher.
A couple of quick thoughts:
It's not surprising to hear that Cowher is potentially interested in coming to Carolina. There was rampant speculation he would be the next N.C. State coach after Chuck Amato was fired, and he lives in the Raleigh area. He'd be closer to his family while still working with an organization known for operating at a high level.
However, current coach John Fox is not on the hot seat. At all. He rescued a moribund franchise and took it to two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. The only way I could foresee Fox with any job security issues is if Carolina goes 6-10 this season, or worse. Even then, I still don't think he'd be fired.
I've always thought Cowher could end up in Washington, and that's incredibly dangerous for the rest of the NFC. Working the thrifty Rooney's in Pittsburgh, Cowher still routinely pumped out double-digit win teams. With the deep pockets of Dan Snyder, and a refusal to trade draft picks, he could definitely right the Redskins ship.
The report is about halfway down the page, and was posted at 4:47 p.m. two days ago.
The Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins are the other two teams who have reportedly spoken with Cowher.
A couple of quick thoughts:
It's not surprising to hear that Cowher is potentially interested in coming to Carolina. There was rampant speculation he would be the next N.C. State coach after Chuck Amato was fired, and he lives in the Raleigh area. He'd be closer to his family while still working with an organization known for operating at a high level.
However, current coach John Fox is not on the hot seat. At all. He rescued a moribund franchise and took it to two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. The only way I could foresee Fox with any job security issues is if Carolina goes 6-10 this season, or worse. Even then, I still don't think he'd be fired.
I've always thought Cowher could end up in Washington, and that's incredibly dangerous for the rest of the NFC. Working the thrifty Rooney's in Pittsburgh, Cowher still routinely pumped out double-digit win teams. With the deep pockets of Dan Snyder, and a refusal to trade draft picks, he could definitely right the Redskins ship.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Grading Carolina's 2007 draft
After writing a giant blog post - and interacting with several of you readers - I think it's only fair to talk about the NFL draft just one more day.
Specifically, how the Carolina Panthers did, since that's the local team and all. Here are a few of my thoughts, and I welcome yours as well.
The good
- Trading down. The Panthers obviously had a handful of players they liked and thought would be available 11 spots lower after swapping picks with the Jets. In doing so, Carolina also picked up a second rounder and essentially swapped a sixth round pick for a fifth rounder. Carolina used the two extra picks to draft Ryan Kalil and Tim Shaw.
- The plan. Carolina came in looking to draft the best available player. Although the team didn't net a safety, the team's talent level swelled greatly.
- The second round. After a run of wide receivers, Carolina took Southern California receiver Dwayne Jarrett in the middle of the second round, after guys like Craig Davis and Sidney Rice. Using the pick from New York, the Panthers took Kalil, a center from USC. Kalil was the highest rated center in the draft, and should have gone in the first round.
- Tim Shaw. Just a great pick in the fifth round. The linebacker from Penn State is a pure football player and should be a great addition.
The bad
- Where was the safety? Carolina needed a safety more than any other position, and inexplicably didn't even draft one.
The iffy
- Jon Beason. I wasn't sure if that was a good pick or not. Panthers coach John Fox said Beason will be used at both the middle and outside linebacker spots, which is good for depth purposes, but intriguing because some feel Beason is too small for the middle. Part of me thinks Carolina really liked Brandon Meriweather or Michael Griffin. Griffin was drafted No. 19 by Tennessee, who most thought would take a receiver. But Beason does provide some much needed depth.
- Dante Rosario. Carolina drafted Rosario to be a pass-catching tight end. He can also come out of the backfield and play fullback. Guys who play two positions always worry me.
The grade
Taking absolutely everything into account, I'd give the Panthers an A-minus. This was an enormous draft fir Carolina, and as I mentioned earlier, the team brought in a ton of talent. Beason and Jarrett could see significant time next year. Defensive end Charles Johnson and Kalil should be full-time starters in a year or two. Punt returner Ryne Robinson will play immediately.
Specifically, how the Carolina Panthers did, since that's the local team and all. Here are a few of my thoughts, and I welcome yours as well.
The good
- Trading down. The Panthers obviously had a handful of players they liked and thought would be available 11 spots lower after swapping picks with the Jets. In doing so, Carolina also picked up a second rounder and essentially swapped a sixth round pick for a fifth rounder. Carolina used the two extra picks to draft Ryan Kalil and Tim Shaw.
- The plan. Carolina came in looking to draft the best available player. Although the team didn't net a safety, the team's talent level swelled greatly.
- The second round. After a run of wide receivers, Carolina took Southern California receiver Dwayne Jarrett in the middle of the second round, after guys like Craig Davis and Sidney Rice. Using the pick from New York, the Panthers took Kalil, a center from USC. Kalil was the highest rated center in the draft, and should have gone in the first round.
- Tim Shaw. Just a great pick in the fifth round. The linebacker from Penn State is a pure football player and should be a great addition.
The bad
- Where was the safety? Carolina needed a safety more than any other position, and inexplicably didn't even draft one.
The iffy
- Jon Beason. I wasn't sure if that was a good pick or not. Panthers coach John Fox said Beason will be used at both the middle and outside linebacker spots, which is good for depth purposes, but intriguing because some feel Beason is too small for the middle. Part of me thinks Carolina really liked Brandon Meriweather or Michael Griffin. Griffin was drafted No. 19 by Tennessee, who most thought would take a receiver. But Beason does provide some much needed depth.
- Dante Rosario. Carolina drafted Rosario to be a pass-catching tight end. He can also come out of the backfield and play fullback. Guys who play two positions always worry me.
The grade
Taking absolutely everything into account, I'd give the Panthers an A-minus. This was an enormous draft fir Carolina, and as I mentioned earlier, the team brought in a ton of talent. Beason and Jarrett could see significant time next year. Defensive end Charles Johnson and Kalil should be full-time starters in a year or two. Punt returner Ryne Robinson will play immediately.
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