2007 Outlook:

After a disappointing 8-8 finish last year, the Panthers will be looking to get back to their playoff ways in 2007. Their cast of players is essentially the same as last year and they'll be hoping that a rash of injuries doesn't hit them hard this time around. The Panthers have a veteran quarterback, an electric go-to receiver, a solid running back platoon, and a stout defense. They have all of the talent and depth necessary to make a strong push towards the elusive first Super Bowl in franchise history.

2007 Draft Review:

The Panthers had an excellent draft where they drafted at least three potential cornerstones for the next decade. First round pick Jon Beason will be thrown into the mix at linebacker, which is a position that was been hit hard with injuries last season, especially with star LB Dan Morgan playing in only one game. In the second round, Carolina dipped into the Pete Carroll-USC pipeline to snag WR Dwayne Jarrett and C Ryan Kalil. Jarrett has the talent to become an elite receiver in this league and Kalil will get an opportunity to anchor the offensive line in years to come. Draft Grade: B+

Key Acquisition:

The addition of former #1 overall pick David Carr as a backup quarterback was an excellent signing. Should Jake Delhomme falter or go down with an injury, Carr is one of the premier backup quarterbacks in the NFL. Furthermore, Carr would get to show what he can do behind a real offensive line, something that Houston never provided for him. Delhomme is 32 years old, so Carr may get the reigns to the starting role in another year or two as well.

Key Departure:

Rookie Dwayne Jarrett will be looked upon to replace the sure hands and steady play of retired wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson. After the Panthers chose not to re-sign him, Keyshawn decided to retire and pursue a job with ESPN rather than electing to sign with another franchise. Drew Carter and Keary Colbert will also get a chance to replace Johnson's production in 2007.

Offensive Preview:

The Panthers have a solid offense that will win them plenty of games. Jake Delhomme is a veteran quarterback with Super Bowl experience. Steve Smith is one of the top wide receivers in the league and will once again be the team's primary playmaker on offense. The ball-carrying responsibilities will be divided in a platoon system between DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams. Last season, Foster was viewed as more of the starter and Williams the backup. But this season, the second-year player out of Memphis will be sharing even more of the rushing attempts with Foster. The team also added some insurance at the quarterback position with the signing of former Houston Texan David Carr.

Defensive/Special Teams Preview:

In 2007 the Carolina Panthers will once again have one of the most formidable defensive units in the NFL. The question will be, can they stay healthy this season? During 2006, star LB Dan Morgan played in only one game due to a concussion. Conversely, defensive lineman Kris Jenkins returned to play all 16 games after participating in only 5 contests over the prior two seasons. This unit is anchored by Pro Bowler DE Julius Peppers, Jenkins, and DE Mike Rucker along the defensive line. Dan Morgan and OLB Nail Diggs headline the linebacking corp with assistance from rookie Jon Beason. The secondary is one of the better units in the league as well with cornerbacks Chris Gamble, Richard Marshall, and Ken Lucas and safety Nate Salley; however, the recent retirement of safety Mike Minter will hurt and will thrust former Chicago Bear Chris Harris into a starting safety role. John Kasay will enter his 13th year as the team's kicker. DeAngelo Williams will be the primary kick returner and Gamble will handle the punt returning duties.

Season Prediction:

After a sour 2006, expect the Carolina Panthers to be one of the bounce-back teams this season. They have all of the weapons on both sides of the ball to really dominate the majority of their competition. They should be neck-and-neck with the New Orleans Saints for the NFC South division crown.

Projected Finish

10 Wins, 6 Losses (1st in the NFC South)