Panther Football, Sports

Panthers are days away from ACTION! Charlotte Hornets Summer League was Beyond Pretty Good

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers are days away from ACTION! Charlotte Hornets Summer League was Beyond Pretty Good
Fans won’t be able to see Panthers practices on field downtown this season or next. This is a scorching reminder for anyone who ever attended a practice in Spartanburg. This is like 9:30, and people are in the small sliver of shade, you just stood there, talked some, and sweated.

Its obviously been a looong minute since Charlotte has cared this much about both its NFL and NBA franchises. With kudos for a couple seasons of solid management all around, and showing major promise in getting to There in 2025, burying Loserville tag on two vibrant, moving forward leadership groups will make for a hotter, more satisfying rest of sports year. (Knights are 11-9, 4th in International League East)

Lots of Moving Pieces, Others will do Sweating

While Hornets fans will possibly swoon at the 22 Pt./12 Reb./6 Ast. and generous ladling of attaboy! Sports Illustrated put on Liam McNeeley’s Summer League debut, https://www.si.com/nba/hornets/news/hornets-may-have-the-steal-of-the-2025-nba-draft-and-it-s-not-kon-knueppel its not quite time to do Oscar-type ‘play them off’ for local NBA crew.

7/21/25 https://www.nba.com/news/nba-2k26-summer-league-kings-hornets Well now, 6-0 is actually more than anyone expected, and I’m kind of laughing at those who dissed KK after mediocre first game. Whether a reasonable, happy news result is coming about last years French product at #6 still seems in doubt, https://www.nba.com/player/1642275/tidjane-salaun but just knowing Ryan Kalkbrenner is available to become the rim-protector Hornets have lacked forever isn’t a fact that will diminish before next season.

Being a 4x Defensive Play of Year in Big East isn’t luck or coincidence, and if they want him on perimeter shooting threes like a Euro-center, that’s probably the least of his traditional back-to-basket, guard your man mission. Not considered a great rebounder? Giannis was 11.9 rpg, what’s great ? Everyone should be on the boards, evv-very-one! Moussa Diabate can’t shoot much? Get some glass, keep other guys honest. Sion James will be a force on the defensive perimeter and boards – 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game (Duke, 2025) .

The Hornets now have *plenty* of shooters with Knueppel, McNeeley, Miller, Sexton, and as far as anyone knows, Melo. Tre Mann, Josh Green and Nick Smith, Jr. will need to battle, Mason Plumlee might be one Dookie too many after scanning early roster.

Hornets President Jeff Peterson is Donald Glover’s character in ‘steely-eyed missile man’ category re: Rich Purnell Maneuver (‘The Martian’, 2015).

Original moniker was applied to NASA flight controller John Aaron (Apollo 12, 13), and refers to calm, crucial solutions and decisive actions – his ‘Switch SCE to Aux’ – after a lightning strike threatened to scrub Apollo 12 launch is legend. In movie, its a gravity slingshot around Earth for an impossible mission – 553 days longer – to save a left-behind astronaut.

7/17/25 Yeah, that is about how far Hornets had seemed from Success. GShorkknows

Contracts and Expectations, Many, many names

Whenever a naysayer opines that *everything* is riding on this Panthers team blowing 6.5 wins out to insure GM Dan Morgan, HC Dave Canales, and Pres. Brandt Tilis don’t lose their jobs, I let them know that football operations are doing just fine, #MrTeppers$ hasn’t been that rip everything up by the roots owner for a while. Lots of names will pass through Panthers roster before first game (Jax) in September, Hornets have some numbers to trim as well.

Yes indeedy, there are loads of Expectations here in the Buckle of the Bible Belt, and YES! Morgan did an admirable job, showcasing an A+ rated draft of documented production defensive and offensive talent, after substantial filling of defensive gaps with qualified FA personnel. Dang! about Josey Jewell leaving in concussion protocols after seven months.

There isn’t an unsigned tag on #2 pick Nic Scourton any more, and he’s done all previous training thus far. Camp starts Wednesday, so it wasn’t a hold-out per se. https://www.on3.com/pro/news/2025-nfl-draft-contract-details-revealed-for-panthers-second-round-pick-nic-scourton/ The NFL knew Morgan needed to draft a ‘he can hurt you long’ receiver at some point, his selecting AZ All-American wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at #8 in 1st rnd. an indicator why (IMHO) he’s got inside track on Executive of the Year. Addressing defensive needs got handled as best practices. Just sayin’.

Offensive lines get talked about until there’s no need to, and the Panthers now stack every position with a replacement. Austin Corbett and Cade Mays will have a battle for center, luck on staying healthy hasn’t been Corbett’s best friend. Chuba Hubbard is the teams Alpha-Lead Dawg, if that’s necessary to state, although having another 1,000 yard guy back there shouldn’t be a struggle.

Will we determine whether Bryce can see even better down field behind this line, or will Panthers move him around to open up passing lanes? (He sees fine).

Young’s ten TDs-no turnovers in final three games still hits key chord in growth estimations. The most effective aspect of a play action pass is the reality of the quarterback actually giving the ball to runner for a healthy gain. Panthers Hubbard keeps that uppermost in a defenses concerns, adding variety with open playbook becomes a fact with QB Young and Head Coach Canales on same wave.

DEEE-fense! arrives in Charlotte – Damn straight!

Fact Panthers defense surrendered a stupendous amount of rushing yards – over 3,000 – well, Derrick Brown is again the Sheriff, and there are defensive ends and nose tackles now with documented stats and history with DC Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 model. No, Shy Tuttle wasn’t the answer at the nose position, though he figures to stay on roster as a rotational player. GM Morgan isn’t passing out #MrTeppers$ to just anyone, and the $100MM contract that Jaycee Horn earned after an All Pro, injury-free year, speaks to how things should now be done in Charlotte. Looking at you Mr. Moton.

You probably haven’t heard many of the 90 names on camp roster who project as second half of keepers on final 53-man roster, and its going to be Panthers taxi squad (15) that will make a difference through 18 week regular season.

Going into Wednesday, its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six seem like no-brainer keeps. At no point will Panthers try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat.’

Is that Rozeboom guy from Rams really a 135-tackle bad ass?

Its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six-seven seem like no-brainer picks for roster. At no point will they try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. If he wants to imitate Stevie SuperStar starting with returns, lets go! No ego, he played opposite a Heisman guy.

Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat, T-Mac,’ but no, ain’t gonna be AZ dry heat.

Did doubling up on young stud defensive edge rushers (Nic Scourton, Round 2, #51) and Princely Umanmielen, Round 3, #77) mean Clowney was expendable? Apparently yes, though there was a moment of concern about a slip-possible injury immediately post-cut. All the linebackers have downfield speed for coverage, how well sacks are produced will be a subject of much counting from Game One.

The Panthers have been bottom three in sacks for years, but just FYI, team record is 60, held by 1996, 2013 teams. In Peppers superman 2008 campaign with 14.5 sacks, they had 50. With the recognition that Evero’s projected safety tandem (Moehrig, Ransom) are recognized thumpers, don’t be surprised what a professional, career as well-regarded defensive coach, can come up with, maybe blitz packages, when his personnel is closer to genuine NFL grade.

Yes, Expectations will be way higher than last, well, seven years. I’m a #BoomerwithAttitude, so thumbs up for Football Operations. Go Hornets, thoughts for Melo…

Business, Political, Thought Leadership

Canada, trump, Poker Lessons Learned from M*A*S*H,* LudaCup

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Canada, trump, Poker Lessons Learned from M*A*S*H,* LudaCup

It was a while ago, but I learned some lessons about over-betting an average hand like Big Slick/Kornikova (Ace-King) because once people you play with regularly know your ‘tell,’ you’re going to get spanked often and badly. For trump it was TACO tag, for snobby Major Winchester it was humming louder when he had a sucko hand.

For about eight years, maybe ten guys from work, even two tables, would go to Rich Luda’s place for monthly Hold ’em tournaments. It was a $50 buy-in, usually paid down to third place. Bring your own beer, Rich was a terrific host with cigars, somebody usually had a joint, and the chop busting was non-stop. With re-buys and such for 16, winners usually got a trophy and $400+.

I had the dubious distinction of being first out a number of times, and while I gifted my brother one cool Tournament Donkey spinner I’d earned, I still have a pewter donkey. One of my exits was epic – having painted my face multiple colors to match a wild golf shirt, I went all-in early with a guy who had a pair of 5s under to go with a rainbow board that had another; I had a pair of jacks or so. NOBODY fails to get a laugh using the line, “It took Shorkey longer to paint his face than he got to play!” including last month, a decade or more later.

For those who don’t know what a Kornikova is, Anna was an extremely attractive tennis player who didn’t win much. The spinner had a donkey in sniper-telescope crosshairs, the rip being all its good for is to bring a load of $$$, then it gets plugged. Get it?

TACO, tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney

The TACO (trump always chickens out) tag will never go away, despite his usual bully tactic of doubling down when wrong, trying to buy the pot in poker terms. The expectation is others will lay hands down instead of gambling everything on sticking it to a known bluffer-‘chip bully.’ trump counted on Canada retreating to little brother status because of long-term, well-integrated economies and that politeness thing. The US was the only super-power left (well, China), and the proverbial final straw was slapping tariffs on Canada despite all that good history.

For the record, I’m of Canadian ancestry, five-six generations from when several groups migrated south into Vermont. I’ve never lacked for confidence about that, and it never gets guessed. Canadians politeness is part of a national identity, which Daily Show host Jon Stewart characterized as ‘the friendly golden Labradoodle of nations,’ and most often was taken for granted by US (but always, thanks for getting our embassy people out of Iran during hostage situation).

Everyone’s worried about the southern border with Mexico, the 5,525 mile (8,891 kilometers), 13 states-8 provinces border with Canada, no problem, eh?

Like trump said numerous times – memorably in his/JD Vance’s televised ambush-WWE tag team of Ukraine’s leader Zelenskyy in a White House meeting – about not having good cards, came with hard suggestions he sue for peace with Russia.

Now, if you have that lowly pair of 5s and instead of one, TWO more come up , it behooves you to just shut up and bet, which is what happened in the picture at top. Not always LEAD the betting, maybe act a little bit confused about why you’re still in if you want, but with my previous reputation for over-betting, other guy at end was a non-believer (and big loser).

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is a Liberal, although more importantly, a trained economist, with a seven-year term as Governor of Bank of England (Mexican Presidente https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudia_Sheinbaum is a documented Real Deal, and was rated the 4th most powerful Woman in the world by Forbes in 2024, another negotiation trump will try to survive), but until the last part of the most recent Canadian elections in March, the Liberals were not expected to take the reins of government. Having seen the chaos of trump’s ham-handed screwing of *everyone* because he felt he could expand beyond Democrats and immigrants, Canadian voters abandoned a Conservative candidate with trumpie leanings, electing Carney in March, 2025.

Carney quietly put the brakes on the relationship where USA always got the bigger piece of cake.

No angry texts, no worried negotiations, just the knowledge Canada didn’t have to react like trump expected, and like the European Union also discovered, actions need to have consequences. The Repubs in Congress have consistently backed down in fear of trump’s frequent threat (and actually hammering) to involve those who didn’t kow tow in expensive primary challenges. PM Carney took Canada to into well-known hockey mode, going into corners with ‘elbows up’ attitude, meaning someone (like trump) expecting to hammer an opponent into the glass might get a lot less desirable face full of payback instead.

So here America is, not first, more like alone

There’s not going to be an easy resolution, mostly because trump has ALWAYS been the sort who would burn something to the ground vs. back off. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLeaif6hyYs. There’s a sh*t ton of background from that in America’s recent past, especially the 2020 elections, where trump and his minions litigated and carped about ill-defined elements of the defeat for four years, based entirely on his ego.

The European Union, seeing Russia’s brutal three year war of attrition with Ukraine as a repeat of WWII situation with Hitler’s Germany, and with too many memories undampened by 80 years passing and appeasement then being useless, has supplied a huge amount of material and $$$, since Putin’s invasion. The EU made the decision – as did US President Joe Biden – that providing Ukraine with the essential means to hold off the much larger Russian army meant they were stopping their own countries from devastation, again for European nations.

In 2025, the EU isn’t blinded by what American troops did ‘back then’ to liberate Europe https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/about-henri-chapelle-american-cemetery/; they also decided not to expect anything positive from trump dissing NATO and being way too friendly toward Putin’s Russia. No tariffs?! and stopping advanced weaponry, even logistical satellite information so Ukraine wasn’t getting early warning of what Russians were doing before major attacks, was a negative result.

PM Carney and certain spokespeople have made it absolutely clear – We still love Americans! – but their collective citizens, to the greatest possible degree, have cut *every*single*possible*economic*tie* to their running amok southern neighbor. In 100% middle-digit-extended response to trump alone, they have ceased going to Florida for beaches and sunshine, nor bought Kentucky bourbon, and everyone concerned knew why. In watching the above youtube and others, its easy to see trump isn’t going to gaslight CANADA into doing his warped bidding. They are now being recognized as a senior level partner at the international level, stepping out from shadow of the United States now, more younger and Reacher’d up little brother who doesn’t get picked last any more.

Way different economics, elbows up on bullies

Several countries who always bought military equipment from US have cancelled orders, and the Swedes have a multi role-fighter jet (Saab JAS 39 Gripen) that’s pretty hot stuff as an alternative; the French Dassault Rafale is considered one of the most advanced and capable warplanes in the world. All the $$$ Canada gave to US defense contractors over decades has been essentially turned off. Cutting off exports of Canadian steel (screw tariffs! ZERO, not just more expensive) was their version of applying a definitive ‘face wash’ (rubbing a hockey glove in other players face during melees), into Detroit’s car manufacturing.

Next years World Cup soccer, designed to include Mexico, Canada, US sites, might be significantly less well attended in US, based on ugly attitudes and documented problems by visitors who risk getting harassed with negatives/denied entry because there were unfavorable text messages about trump on personal phones. Will ICE be at stadiums, checking dark-haired customers coming from Jersey or Texas? Uncool, and if you haven’t already bought tickets…

How many times did Winchester from MASH and I get whacked when people knew our tells? I’m chuckling at fact NOBODY with anything decent folded because I raised the big blind from $200 to $500, at least paid until they saw a flop. My version of TACO, reducing my big betting when I still only had a Kornikova, was a signal they punished me regularly for, raising all around the table, and I wasn’t always smart enough to drop out with zip. They knew I was weak, more Tournament Donkey bringing the $$$ than someone who was about to deliver the boom!

trump tore up North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis recently because he openly stated there was no way he (Tillis) could vote for trump’s Bad Billionaire Bill knowing it was a load of nasty for his 663,000 constituents on Medicare/Medicaid (yo!) A normally valuable ally in politically purple North Carolina, Tillis stated he wouldn’t run for re-election in 2026, and *many* people told trump it was a mistake to strongly diss a usually strong ally when it mangles the Congressional battle map with a retirement.

Poker-wise, you might get that last necessary card- like a fourth 5 – on the river, a big surprise when it happens. Sometimes, as trump has learned, you shouldn’t try and snake someone 50% in the corners just because you can. When they’ve got the elbows up, its very possible you’ll get a mouthful of payback instead, eh?

microeconomy, Political, Thought Leadership

NO KINGS! Marches a Success, Vietnam fell 50 years ago, So now what?

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on NO KINGS! Marches a Success, Vietnam fell 50 years ago, So now what?
New Zealand All Blacks classic haka is aggressive as hell as spectacle, but not a riot.

Millions of people in some 1,800 marches across America on Saturday, and dozens of countries around the world, displayed extreme negatives regarding the US Prez, whose $45MM birthday parade was a badly attended (and embarrassing) event. About 1/3 of that was budgeted for repairing those DC roads the tanks will tear up during a military hoo-hah usually done for dictators.

I told a number of people at Charlotte event that I never did anything related to Vietnam protests, which were often MASSIVE, vocal, strongly purposeful events long before today’s social media could get the necessary word out by posting on multiple sites. A 50th class reunion in September is a huge counterpoint to knowing ‘Nam went down in a matter of weeks the Spring of my senior year.

Having stated often how glad I was to not be involved in that meat-grinder, its a 100% Truth that, aside from our incredibly bloody Civil War, NOW is the most divisive time in our nation’s history.

I’m not the only person who cheered about trump’s VERY badly attended birthday-celebration for ‘US Army’s 250th Anniversary’ Saturday. If those people who support djt’s chaotic second term at the helm thought he owned the libs, the Reality of ‘Eat (excrement), 50 billion flies can’t be wrong’ was evident on a world-wide stage. GShork 6/16/25

Will another 1000-1200 words make a difference?

Attempting to write something strong-meaningful about overall picture probably won’t fly as high and well as Thomas Paine’s ‘Common Sense’ of 1776 in swaying public opinion, and there are plenty of columnists and pundits who will have opinions and better platforms to present their views to a larger audience. I’ll use bullets (no ballot necessary, the people have definitely spoken) for a Monday review on non-attendance in DC.

There will probably be a number of fellow grads I won’t be chatting with in September, but since we haven’t communicated much since HS, its not going to affect my sleeping habits. Those who identified me as ‘one of those journalism guys’ at previous reunions, the only piece I regret from back then was dissing the majorettes, because KK turned into a dynamic Woman vs. just *really* cute girl junior year. NOW is a lot more serious deal, definitely no regrets on stating my POV.

  • Kent State (5/4/1970, 4 dead, 9 wounded) was my first clue our government could actually do something like shoot unarmed protestors. Most consider it a tragic situation, jittery young Ohio National Guard troops opening fire, but there’s NO mistaking how serious the current administration is about trying to control what We the People are allowed to say or do, at least according to trump & his Minions. I’m not the only #BoomerwithAttitude who recalls Chicago cops working their fucking night-sticks, but TV made us aware of black people being beaten and more long before that. But I didn’t see that so much in Schenectady, NY.
  • Bobby Kennedy invoking his own brothers assassination FOR THE ONLY TIME – and Indianapolis was the only city that wasn’t ablaze in America the night of ML King’s death. THAT’S deserved rioting, not just protest.
  • The direct repudiation/regular bitch-slapping (apologies for a non-gender specific but accurate phrase) of long time American belief in principles of posse comitatus https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/posse-comitatus-act-explained (bans using military for police actions) and habeas corpus -a judicial order forcing law enforcement authorities to produce a prisoner they are holding, and to justify a prisoner’s continued confinement – is beyond just disturbing. Lady Liberty lies propped against an LA curb, nicked repeatedly by rubber bullets and probably tear-gassed, just five months into this administration.
  • ‘We’ DID fix a quantity of negatives about environment and civil-womens-gay rights back then, at least paid enough attention to it to recognize what losing those advances would mean today. Could changes have happened any more organically, without LOTS of effort on legal front by many, many people over many, many years? Save the freaking eagles worked. Gal Gadot (as Wonder Woman) beating Ares, and ending WWI by breaking his hold on the minds of German military isn’t on the menu with trumpies.
  • RULE OF LAW – Can America trust the judiciary to hold strong against a relentless tide of malfeasance while providing full immunity? A common sign Saturday was ‘No faux (fake) king way.’ Un-Constitutional doesn’t seem to carry as much weight, if ANY, with ‘those people.’ Its in black and white about ‘born here = Citizen,’ and right to be told charges and allowed to defend oneself. People – including those who voted for trump and/or participated in infamous, watched by the WORLD ‘Capital tour group’ in January, 2021 – only now seem to recognize what they’re losing after an espouso is picked up going to work, or their job is axed by DOGE.
  • Is a person who shoots a Minnesota State senator and wife, murdering two and seriously wounding two others, a throwback to assassinations of political figures like Malcolm X, the Kennedys and M.L. King, Jr. in Sixties? We *better* not hope so, not when anyone can get a military-grade weapon like an AR-15 that spits death at an unholy rate sent through the mail. Forget Reacher having a discussion with gun store owner about getting pistols and ammo before 3-day ‘cooling off’ period because he knows some ways around regulations.
  • NATIONAL DEBT – Repugnants in Congress are VERY willing to gut every social program to pay for a multi-trillion dollar tax break for billionaires, knowing without any doubt it will put an already staggering debt ($36T) into non-Elon/SpaceX orbit. trump *immediately* tanked an envy-of-the-world economy he inherited from Biden. Does anyone doubt he told BBC (billionaire boys club) members when to get in-out of market? I don’t have any kids, but everyone else’s, know even worse times are coming regarding repayment and budget tradeoffs`.
  • Book banning, tariffs randomly slapped down against allies and (except Russia) others without reason, attempting to reverse any-all vestiges of DEI by wiping out even the mention of Enola Gay – which was name of bomber that dropped historic 1st ever nuke on Hiroshima – because of that last part of its name. NO taking gifts of value from other countries, and a prez who decides it doesn’t apply to him because ‘I’d have to be crazy not to accept something (as over the top) as a jumbo jet,’ and the illegal creation of a currency (Bitcoin-ish) anyone can buy without signaling they are gaining influence through BIG TIME direct bribes to him and family, is a constant drum beat.

Sorry, have to get back to Real Writing

Okay, not all of this was Saturday, but the WORLD *is* watching US and ‘cuz I’m a word guy, I needed to get it off my chest. It took a minimal amount of time for the end of Vietnam War – as soon as North knew US bombers wouldn’t be doing anything to slow their roll, they mopped up South Vietnam in weeks. As first war USA lost, its affected how this country went about things for decades, and today, EVERYONE truly wonders how ‘we’ can be trusted in almost any venue or for any reason.

Europe is moving on with necessary WHO and NATO-related operations (ie. Ukraine), long-time BFF Canada has its elbows up in the corners about little brother attitudes and trump’s cretin-ish musings of 51st state possibilities, and if the Orange One believing Greenland and the Panama Canal Zone can be taken militarily, he’s apparently no smarter than Putin about biting off more than he can chew. Thinking USA will escape devastation two previous world wars brought on everyone else isn’t about thought leadership or best practices, its ludicrous.

We the People has arrived at a bottom line about democracy. Picard’s “Here and no further!” for any Trekkies, or substitute ‘trumpies’ into a one-liner from Vietnam-era ‘Platoon,’ “Eff’n Cong are comin’, and they ain’t stoppin’ for shit!’ is legit too.

Ed. Note, 6/23/25 Freaking great, now he’s bombed Iran without, ‘doesn’t need,’ Congressional approval.

‘This isn’t how I remember things being’ is a common, wistful thought on lips of many #BoomerswithAttitude like myself. I recently put what is described as a premium graduation card-puzzle on Etsy (19″x13″, 15 pcs., $8.25 + shipping), because my microeconomy as a relative peasant non-billionaire class BETTER have an alt gig! When that ever-lovin’ 3rd rail, Social Security – which is NOT AN ENTITLEMENT, I PAID INTO IT SINCE AGE 16, OUT OF $1.65/hr. MCDONALDS PAYCHECK – is threatened right in front of us? Bullshit on ‘Better.’

Medicaid cuts and starving kids, loss of healthcare? Everything, everywhere, all at once? Holy crap!

‘Welcome to the Real World’ is an intentionally darker duotone piece, ‘WTRW’ was originally meant as a jaded look at employment situation, with the many inconveniences and crazy things grads et al face in 2025, We the People has arrived at a bottom line about democracy. Picard’s “Here and no further!” for any Trekkies, or sub ‘trumpies’ into a one-liner from Vietnam-era ‘Platoon,’ “Eff’n Cong are coming, and they ain’t stoppin’ for shit!’ is legit too.

Damn! That first election post-Watergate seems like a million years ago, when top Repubs like Goldwater told Nixon, “You gotta go!” because he’d lost the trust of the nation. Nixon had too much respect for the office to try staying, while trump has A-B-S-O-L-U-T-E-L-Y zero shame about demeaning office, and by the crudest example of Repub enablement, stuck it out legally through two impeachments.

Telling others Saturday that I didn’t attend gatherings about Vietnam, the HUGE loss of time, treasure, and lives it historically represents, an ultimate divisiveness it produced back then, I also said, BUT I’M HERE NOW. How about *you*?

Panther Football

Take Leggette, as in bet on nose – OTA, Good Coaching, McMillan as Double Trouble, Lot Better in Year Two

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Take Leggette, as in bet on nose – OTA, Good Coaching, McMillan as Double Trouble, Lot Better in Year Two
Things will be less gloomy in Charlotte, with a brighter offensive-defensive energy, a newness reboot of franchise.

Celebrating start of personal 31st year in Charlotte, arrived 1995, same as Panthers, and similarity of high energy and ‘newness-reboot’ on team pride for 2025 is legit. By most estimates, Panthers have six solid, multi-skilled WRs, with a quantity of attention on Xavier Leggette, after four opportunities to show off his Dollar Bill gallop as TD celebration.

He’s honest and right about several non-catches costing team football games, and being the other side from 6’4″ Tetairoa McMillan, the Panthers #1 pick from Arizona, teams are going to have trouble doubling size and speed on both.

OC Idzik – ‘First time same position for me too’

When some NFL analysts have evaluated the Panthers upgrades in personnel as only worth a single victory more – 6.5 – than last season projection, believing the best receiving room talent accumulated since first Super Bowl is in direct line with best practices by football operations is easy. https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2016/2/7/10902996/carolina-panthers-2003-new-england-patriots-super-bowl-XXXVIII Add three tight end targets and a couple backs, Bryce Young’s options behind a well-tested offensive line will mean undeniably bigger numbers offensively. In documented production of every free agent and draftee in 2025, the WR array is beyond solid, on offense and defense.

https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/low-ranked-nfc-south-ripe-for-panthers-picking-going-into-2025-nfl-season-01jwre9ydzx7

There’s no reason to doubt the Truth of Leggette’s POV, that doubling he and McMillan will be difficult. Any footage of the AZ All-American looks like a physical overmatch on size, especially when he high-points many receptions, and his yards after catch are substantial. As a 227-pound speed burner, Leggette is more basic than saying ex-Panthers favorite DJ Moore was ‘tough to get on the ground,’ whether he’s tough to catch, he’s statistically easier (less YAC) to get on turf than a speedy/studly guy should be.

Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, and camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task, will be evident. Naysayers regarding XL’s Must Achieve production or risk being lost in WR group are dumb, that he’ll become a lesser option for targets because of Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.

Offensive Coordinator Brad Idzik was solid on fact of 2025 as second time around in same system after a couple years of plug-play adjustments himself, before coming from Tampa Bay with Head Coach Dave Canales last year. Don’t expect Panthers will abandon an excellent offensive line operation with Chuba Hubbard at core of ball control to sling footballs around BOA Stadium.

Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task will be evident. Naysayers regarding Xavier Leggette’s Must Do production or be exiled to end of WR line are dumb. His becoming a lesser option for targets because of McMillan and Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.

6/1/25 – GlennS. Just sayin,’ I saw Xavier doing a pre-Kentucky Derby interview, and whether he was coached on speaking slower or not, IMHO, no great effort was required to understand him. Now, Jerry from poker, when he gets excited, even though I know I asked him something, yikes! (If you pay attn, XL does fine in this 12 min. clip)

Panthers GM Dan Morgan made Leggette his first Big Boy decision, trading up with Buffalo to draft Leggette in first round, when *everyone* knew Panthers didn’t have a #1 pick going in. That’s not a pressure point, nor is McMillan. He understands and is practicing exactly what coaches emphasize, that becoming a better receiver entails instead of what sort of fantasy football numbers he generates.

In the bigger Carolina Panthers picture, the off-season improvement of Ejiro Evero’s defense got the lion’s share of emphasis with free agent signings, then Tet-Mc’s semi-surprising pick at #8, and the anticipation of the WR1 the NFL world knew they sorely needed probably AFTER they got another defensive asset, but Sports Illustrated and I are on same wave about XL’s higher productivity potential.

Could elevating his stats from 49/496 yds/4TD to 70/750/7 TDs ever be considered a negative? If both reached over 1,000 yds., would anyone doubt they’d be a playoff team? https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/nfl-analyst-names-2nd-year-wr-panthers-top-summer-breakout-candidate-01jwrj1pfb51 His YAC wasn’t exceptional (112.3 yds. ranked #92) for his documented speed. Carolina Panthers fans will recall Curtis Samuel’s crazy speed (4.31 in 40) for several years, and going free agency after one full season of injury-free production. As noted, at 6’1″, 227 highly motivated pounds, so catching AND on the ground equation changes when he catches in stride.

Catch, then be Special. – HC Dave Canales, early comment about Leggette’s catching.

Panther Football

Panthers in Position with Better Personnel, Mini-Camp (three weeks), Home Opener v. ATL Week 3

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers in Position with Better Personnel, Mini-Camp (three weeks), Home Opener v. ATL Week 3

Professional (and otherwise) opinions regarding 2025 version of Carolina Panthers cover the spectrum, with NFC South division rival Tampa Bay as a primary threat to a breakout year for Bryce Young, how complete a defensive resurgence for DC Ejiro Evero’s unit an elementary part of the equation. ‘Chilling’ will be tough on fans, nothing to watch about Panthers training camps for two years, no new indoor facility yet.

All the rooms Head Coach Dave Canales indicated he likes well populated – WR, RB, TE – are loaded on body count, and for a Quarterback Whisperer to have a full playbook to work with target-wise, the operational word is still a ground attack with Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle, and plus Corbett and Christiansen, a respected again offensive line. BUT…if size matters, Tet-Mc and XL are *big* receivers.

Names & Nothing More

Three weeks until a three-day mandatory mini-camp (June 10-12), and no real visibility to what newbies on Panthers roster are possibly looking like compared to ESPN clips will probably be a long yawn. GM Dan Morgan has done research and other best practices to identify at least the ninety people now officially linked to Panthers.

The names of free agents and drafting additions will be parsed regularly until at least July, although there won’t many opportunities for seeing any actual feats, even if Panthers don’t have indoor practice facility.

DJ Moore in his first Spartanburg camp, coming down with a throw, immediately motoring to sidelines and faking-running into a defensive back to finish. ‘Tough to get on the ground’ was his rep – I saw that. The legend of ‘how hot’ Spartanburg was, Tet-Mc won’t need to know.

Can newbies #1 Tet-Mc as the All American stud receiver from AZ, and #6 Jimmy Horn, Jr., who was the Other receiver at Colorado, across from Heisman winner and #2 overall NFL pick Travis Hunter, become productive NFL pros? Are two Notre Dame tight ends in Charlotte better than one?

Objecting to fantasy stories of incredible trades the Panthers might attempt in a fever dream makes this a silly season. *Everyone* knows how high-tightly Morgan holds draft capital, nor are Panther football operations going to throw massive contracts at anyone. None include wooing Aaron Rodgers, which is the Steelers silliest story.

Lots of people may wonder why Clowney – and before him, Jeremy Chinn – can’t find a place on an Ejiro Evero team is kind of out there. Yes, Ohio St. safety Nathan Ransom (4th) is above average in coverage, but also the stud thumper they’ve lacked at back of defense. He and Moehrig should help change the ole! defense (180 ypg rushing) in run support as well.

S Demani Richardson made the roster in 2024 as an UDFA, had 26 solo tackles and an interception, and the Panthers secondary doesn’t need to consider divesting itself of any budding talent.

The names that will come up and pass away before mid-June camp and July reality are a shedding process, and off-season workouts in late May shouldn’t affect the ninety in short term. For what its worth, the run of injuries that sidelined multiple defensive assets as players, they may have an experience and recognition factor, mas o menos, with coaches if not fans. Goodbye to Shaq Thompson was adhering to past production as GM Morgan’s stay-go criteria.

They make a fuss about players like QB Brock Purdy (Mr. Irrelevant last in draft to 5 yr/$265MM) or Jalen Coker (WR, Carolina Panthers) beating THE ODDS because, factually speaking, the failures of X number of previous people to level up means doing More, now, with THIS opportunity, or become the statistic. You and I might get an attaboy! for Attitude.

An example of Panthers mishandling a Heisman Trophy QB wouldn’t be Cam Newton, whose size and speed in the RPO offense were the epitome of QB position with Russ Wilson, RGIII, Kapernick et al bumfuzzling defensive ends and blowing away secondaries. Chris Weinke would be Charlotte’s poster child for that. He holds the record for oldest player drafted at 28 years, 284 days, coming out of Florida State with the Heisman after years of minor league baseball.

On a 2001 team lacking very much firepower, he surpassed enough escalators to trigger rookie contract increases, then was shelved for two years behind Rodney Peete, who had no gas left in his tank. Weinke wasn’t given a second contract because $5M for an almost thirty-three year old backup hadn’t been invented back then.

There’s nothing like that in 2025 Carolina Panthers operations. Yes, they have their quarterback.

6.5 and Beyond

This is a minimalist POV by some measure, of Panthers making smallest level of on-field progress despite recent accumulations of markedly stronger talent as than last year. No defense then, LOTS of documented production defenders were signed. Roster turnover? Deserved and necessary, count on it.

While everyone in NFL felt Panthers had toooo many holes after 2023, their being tied for not first (5-12 with ATL and NO) record in NFC South suffered greatly from a brutal ‘no video’ decision of a Thielen TD-catch *I saw* from upper bowl other end of stadium. Being stiffed by lack of a replay became an overtime loss to Tampa Bay, when Chuba Hubbard’s fumble – practically the only negative in a superman effort season – turned the ball over when offense was driving.

If Xavier Leggette has thicker skin than most, terrific! because judging his first year a bust and now ‘just’ a sidekick to Tet-Mc is brutally stupid. Canales as QB Whisperer is more relevant to Leggette’s Year Two, surprises can become facts, coaching-reps count. GShork 5/20/25

Jonathan Brooks won’t be part of the critical mass of talent teams must gain to achieve more wins than losses, at least no contributions on the horizon. I’ve got a DeAngelo Williams jersey from when he and John Stewart tag team were very effective ball control factors for Panthers, so a 1000 yd. guy like Dowdle that Cowboys didn’t protect, yay! Oh, and thanks again to dah Boyz for 6’6″, 328 lb. roadblock Cam Jackson, that #4 for Mingo trade fits the nose guard need hugely.

Can Etienne possibly figure in? will make his and Blackshear’s names pop up regularly on media. Clowney not sticking for two years – I haven’t seen any ‘this is why’ opinions, only a $7.8M cap figure, hmmm. Shy Tuttle is continuing as a defensive piece, just not being forced to play inadequate nose guard is a net positive.

Jacksonville to open season away, Arizona, Week 3 home vs. ATL, New England there, Dolphins Week #5 is how early schedule lays out. This NFL season, #MrTeppers$ seventh year as owner, has been less miserable by many standards, and relying on his football operations people, Canales-Morgan-Tilis group, verdict about having nailed the personnel side better than expected in Panthers GM Morgan’s time is an NFL truth.

No Jalon Walker? Let it go.

Any eyeball assessment is there’s more *documented* quality bodies on hand now – by a lot – than after 2-15, and beyond the numeric negatives of last season’s 5-12. Saying the Carolina Panthers are in the same boat as ATL and NO, with Carr retiring on Saints and Cousins presence-contract still part of ATL’s $$ predicament, means things aren’t nearly as solid elsewhere as in Charlotte.

microeconomy, POV - Content Creation, Sports

Hockey goalies are inspirational, LL triple headers for a Blue, PWHL goes 5 OTs, Congrats!

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Hockey goalies are inspirational, LL triple headers for a Blue, PWHL goes 5 OTs, Congrats!

You couldn’t go wrong in describing Montreal Victorie-Ottawa Charge game as a 3-2, five OT rock fight, with real anticipation of more coming. Names and logos and toughness in Year Two is all any sponsors could’ve asked for. With all the acrobatics professional goalies perform, and Maple Leafs Joseph Woll got shelled (37 shots on goal) while surrendering a pair in 2-0 loss to defending NHL champ Florida Panthers, LeSharque’s (moi) #1 Hockey Memory is still being clipped back of elbow by slap shot *first time ever in goal* and thinking it was dislocated while kicking the equipment to side of rink.

Flashed on that when a side-squatting catcher allowed a wicked foul tip to score a direct hit, *just* above knee protection during a Little League triple-header Saturday. At 68, ducking high, wild pitches launched by ten-year olds happens often, and quality level of catchers rotating is a huge variable. Okay, maybe a macho content in my microeconomy still involves taking hits, even if I rubbed it a little. FYI – If you hear it hit, the Blue is usually okay, though umpire support is appreciated.

Calling a player out! immediately for diving head first into home plate was about Best Practices. Its a safety factor discussed before every minor league game. Whatever else is going on in world, the Great American Family Experience continues full speed ahead.

Calling a player out! immediately for diving head first into home plate was about Best Practices. Its discussed before every minor league game. Plays at the plate are why Blues get the Big $$$, right?

Told kid parked next to me post-game Wed. ANY pitcher had most of plate because he stood so far away, so Sat. he stepped right to line, looked at me, went 4-4, and hit every one hard. Yay me!

–5/10/25 Micro-sessions of work, like 6 vs. 8 hrs. for a Work Day seems fine. I rolled 10a-4p Saturday at $30/hr. Outside, sharing the Great American Family Experience – terrific! Foul tip in knee, less fun.

Pro Hoops-Hockey Extravaganza Weekend

Its not some voice saying it, its two voices, just saying same thing about a cold one waiting.

With plenty of snacks and the promised cold ones Saturday, and then a Sunday evening of similar inaction, the question of how much importance should be attached to such athletic events arose. The affirmation was being a sportwriter, and content analyst gig required the input, it wasn’t just surrendering attention all weekend to trump’s minions, which never seem to miss an opportunity to step wrong.

Uh huh, Johnson says you’ve got that Medicaid slash piece ready. But this is about sports, right?

Running back the most recent events, the Celts are still down 2-1 after opening a full can of whupass on Knicks at MSG, before settling for a 115-93 thumping. Having coughed up 20-pt. leads in two game with faulty 3-point shooting, Celtics 50% rate Saturday (20-40) looks like they’ve fixed things. NBA 6th Man of Year Payton Pritchard stroked 23 for Celts, who are favored -6.5 pts, -260 for Monday’s game, O/U 208.5

Out West, Anthony Edwards plunked down his reputation and best practices at clutch time, putting a 36-Pts/4-R/4 Asst line hurt on Curry-less Warriors, even with Playoff Jimmy (33-Pts/7-R/7Asst) Butler and Kuminga contributions (30-Pts/6-R/3Asst) in 102-97 loss. Indiana Pacers breezed, and Cleveland is looking very mortal without Donovan Mitchell (12 pts.), losing 129-109 and facing a 3-1 hole.

Honestly, the Nuggets-Thunder game was unwatchable, the lack of professional flow must’ve set NBA hoops fans back a decade. The 92-87 finale was appreciated more for finality than affirming victory. A similar unfortunate who cares slighting is the timing factor for Edmonton Oilers-Vegas Golden Knight series, stuck in a 10:00-plus start time zone that makes caring about the Knights 2-1 lead difficult.

For all the Caniacs in Raleigh, an SRO crowd roared throughout the game, as their team strutted Warning Flag black outfits and totally muffled the Capitals 4-0, goalie Frederik Andersen stopped a mere 21 shots. https://www.nhl.com/gamecenter/car-vs-wsh/2025/05/10/2024030223 The 2-1 Florida Panthers throttled the Maple Leafs 2-0 to create another gut-check moment in the Leafs best season in quite a while. Its a similar same situation for the Winnipeg Jets, down 2-1 in series with Dallas Stars after 5-2 loss. The Jets took the NHL Presidents Cup in 2024-25 as the top regular season point-getting team (56 W-22L-4T), but last NHL team to win regular season points trophy and Stanley Cup was Chicago Blackhawks, 2012-13.

OMG! The PWHL goes into 5th OT

It took 135 minutes for the Montreal Victoire to shake the Ottawa Charge loose 3-2, tying their series at 1-1. In the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s second year of life, the teams have identities vs. just cities on their sweaters, a TV contract, Olympic pedigreed players, and a planned expansion (Seattle, Vancouver) product both America and Canada love.

Four of the six original (2024) teams became playoff teams this year, Montreal-Ottawa in one semi-final, the Minnesota Frost-Toronto Scepters in the other half of draw. Minnesota tied the series 1-1 with a 7-5 win Sunday. The other two original teams are Boston Fleet and NY Sirens.

https://www.thepwhl.com/en/stats/schedule/all-teams/6/all-months?league=1

I’m a fan from way back

My Little Part for Womens Sports, then Boom! (45 Years later) Pro Women’s Hockey League
POV - Content Creation, Thought Leadership

On Dad’s (sort of) birthday, thanks to Good Good Person Waldo Shorkey for my conversational ability, Good Character, 3 brothers

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on On Dad’s (sort of) birthday, thanks to Good Good Person Waldo Shorkey for my conversational ability, Good Character, 3 brothers

My Dad actually passed in late January, 2013, but watching the Daily Show episode where Jon Stewart eulogized his dog, 3-legged pound pet, Dipper, his line about ‘In a world of good boys, he was the BEST Good Boy,’ I felt the jolt- there’s a legitimate analogy for Dad. Especially when Stewart admits, with a catch in tone that’s obvious, “I thought I’d get further than this…” well, its taken all day to get this keyboarded.

$30 can get you a LOT of flowers. The feeling was always, ‘Thanks for taking care of my gal.’

Let’s start with playing racquetball, leaving house by 8:30 to play at court in Watervliet Arsenal, where he worked. Those mornings, just us, fun hitting, playing four-five games in an hour, checking his skills while playing shots back more in middle so he could make returns, so easy to enjoy.

As a child in mid-Thirties, Dad had polio, when polio killed a LOT of kids/people, or put them in iron lungs. Despite a smaller left leg, he served in Navy (’51-’55), but was never much of an athlete. Terrific bonding over decent physical effort, then using the Nautilus equipment at the building, and breakfast out someplace.

It was very pleasing to know he practiced extra at lunches to develop a *nasty* Z-serve as a lefty, getting it to drop just before hitting 3rd wall ( service fault), way down and dirty to my backhand. We beat a couple other father-son teams, he made shots when necessary. Super memory.

Putting together pool tables for $50. Dad’s P/T job (early ’70s) at Wards got him the ‘Assemble it yourself, or let our experts do it!’ gig, three sections of 3/4″ slate pool tables. During OPEC embargo, with gasoline prices through the roof, lots of people bought the home entertainment deals. We had so much business, older brother (Mike) worked with Dad’s buddy Sel as a second crew.

$20 for helper share usually meant $40 day, frequently two Sunday too, up to $80 was a GOLD MINE, great work conditions.

Dad always taught us how to use tools, but seeing his extra effort in making sure the plaster of Paris seams were absolutely right, ball returns all rolled smoothly, the felt was securely glued in the pockets, pride in workmanship was a consistent example to follow.

He’d send me to get the owner, let him know we were done, guy had often bought for teens and didn’t play, would tell Dad to go ahead, Dad *always* said, “Glenn’s our shooter.” First shot on 8-foot red table, never busted rack of gleaming balls, dropping a couple more, telling Dad there must be something wrong with that pocket if I missed. (Insert Tim Allen grunts) Always lunch, satisfaction with Quality of Doing, cash in pocket. ‘Measure twice, cut once’ – I’m smiling about brother who blew Dad’s best practices axiom while doing crown molding in his front room.

A feeling of Dad’s “Thanks for taking care of my gal,” was a Goodness on my mind every time, and I *know* Dad would have wanted pretty stuff for Mom’s caretakers too, so I always had a good second vase for nurses station.

Flowers for Mom’s caretakers at Carmel Hills, for her birthday, Mothers Day, or Easter. Dad was a great arranger for church displays in NY and FL, centerpieces since forever. I’ve told three brothers they can fight it out for Dad’s woodworking crown, I’ll aspire to his creative side, because he really had artistic talents. I’ve done well putting displays-projects together, so Mom (who passed in Sept. ’23) had flowers, and I bought plenty of supplies, because I *know* Dad would have wanted them to have pretty stuff too, so always a good second vase for nurses station.

When I visited folks in Tampa end of one February, to be there for Mom’s birthday (3/1), Dad and I were watching the US-Canada gold medal Olympic hockey game. For the only time I EVER recall him asking, when Mom said its time for dinner, Dad asked, “Is there any reason we couldn’t eat in here?” You could tell from Mom’s, “Because the FOOD is in here” response that her long-time philosophy on sitting down to eat and TV hadn’t changed over years or in retirement.

He sure wasn’t dying on that hill, and *without rushing* we only missed a couple minutes of next period. Historically, if the phone rang during dinner, Dad always said, “Let it ring, everyone we know knows dinner is 5-5:30. If its important, they’ll call back.”

Golfing on the nine hole, par three course inside the Watervliet Arsenal walls where he worked, early version. Only needed three clubs and shared a putter, we bought a couple on our own, 7s and 9s, maybe a five. Dad wasn’t a run or shoot athlete like us as maybe 10-12 year old guys, but he knew how to instruct three of us on grip and swing. We sprayed shots all over, cheered for lucky hits in the air.

We’d also go down to the Arsenal early on some Saturdays to pick through the top quality lumber, what lengths of steel to be machined into artillery, cannon, and tank gunnery had arrived in, which was the Arsenal’s business. Pinch bars and hammering out nails, turning crates and pads into safe pieces for transport and home projects, a life-long skill. The beam that became center to back porch – where it rested on the dashboard of Ford station wagon and red flag was hung a good three feet out rear window – is legendary. As a Hammer Guy, I’m a legend in my own mind.

That he signed consent form so I could play Pop Warner football was HUGE.

Coming down the driveway at 5:00

Dad came down the driveway within five minutes of 5:00 every day, a consistency I cherish above all else really. Its on first line of Thanks for Coming piece I produced and everyone got at folks 50th Anniversary in Tampa (2005). Whatever the score in basketball or street football game was, Dad was the ehhhh! buzzer. If you were behind, the game timing out could mean No Winner. Dad would give Mom a hug and kiss, then ‘Leave It to Beaver’ boys, wash up for dinner. Everyone talked around the table. The cook gets kissed.

Have to admit, the body of thoughtful work I produced with ceramics was come by honestly, just like Dad’s chatty friendliness.

He wasn’t sure how important whatever he might write in the leather journal I bought him could be, but on probably folks last trip through Europe, his super-positive sense of gratitude for the everyday events of life came through. There’s also a drawing of the red wagon Coca-Cola made for him! which he and a buddy loaded with ice and Cokes, servicing the Arsenal right across the street pretty well – kid was making $5/day during the Depression.

His sincere ‘…and that was great’ was as easily earned for meeting a young Belgian, who heard their English and talked with them, helped them about where and how to make sure about getting off at right station. Maybe just a lady whose pastries were excellent – because Dad had a sweet tooth – or when he and Mom visited an AFS exchange kids home in Switzerland, years after meeting as HS supporters in Schenectady, and were treated as close friends.

I’d never actually known it until a sister-in-law told me Dad really didn’t like vegetables (like beets), but he ate them because four boys needed a good example. Can I get an Amen for Dad’s on that?

Panther Football

Panther roster A+ improved, Fans happier – ‘Meh’ for projected 6.5 Ws, No LBs Drafted

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panther roster A+ improved, Fans happier – ‘Meh’ for projected 6.5 Ws, No LBs Drafted

It seems unseemly to knock any part of what Panthers GM Dan Morgan has accomplished through free agency signings and draft (won’t be me, especially two stud pass rush defenders) by saying they missed on picking a linebacker in draft. If Pro Football Focus says he rocked Panthers football operations, there’s plenty of credibility in that source.

FYI- When you have a laundry list of holes for filling – nose guard, weak pass rush, safety – like Panthers, and after three days there is wild praise for efficient selecting, but *somebody* says, ‘Uncool, you missed picking a linebacker!’ its okay to take a couple sips of your lemonade or whatever, and just keep working The Plan.

5/1/25 GShork – Opinions on a team’s football operations are generally fine, calling out a draft because an NFL GM didn’t do what Fred on next stool (but with an online voice) thought was more important, no.

Clowney a trade piece, Leggette a ‘lesser’ #2, A’Shawn Robinson

Two players with small clouds overhead as result of Morgan’s recent efforts on building a better roster are DE Jadevon Clowney and last year’s #1 WR pick, Xavier Leggette. Why does Panthers *finally* getting a quality WR1 type (like fan favorite DJ Moore, lost in trade for #1 pick Young) mean Leggette is diminished or ‘only’ a sidekick? Panthers will need both to improve to competitive status.

If Tet-Mc’s 2025 stats are close to AZ numbers (84 catches, 1300+ yds., 8 TDs), yes, chances of Leggette being a 1000 yard receiver will go down. If both hit those standards, the Panthers are probably a playoff threat.

A’Shawn Robinson tied for top sack number (5.5) for Panthers, but was clearly worn down as a rusher by playing so many snaps on basic defense. Shy Tuttle didn’t cut it as a nose tackle, but as a defensive player, he’s still worth keeping. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/3054857/ashawn-robinson

Its been brought up numerous ways, how better offensive time of possession changes the defensive equation positively, so Tet-Mc’s (Tetairoa McMillan) presence, including signing bonus (almost $17MM), base-salary guarantees, offseason workout per diem, performance incentives and roster bonuses, is a four-year deal worth $27,887,104.

With a rookie salary of $4,519,501, and NFL players getting 18 game checks, McMillan will earn about $251,083 per game.

If his third-down catch factor keeps Bryce Young’s offense on the field instead of defense getting ground into dust, that’s worth doing, so Morgan-Canales-Tilis did it. Adding a true WR1, which many KNEW was as necessary as defensive help in the trenches, was excellent.

Thats why so many are concerned with rookie contracts. What does a proven NFL receiver like DK Metcalf (Steelers) command? Four years, $132MM, $30MM signing bonus, $60MM guaranteed. Expensive? Do the math, but understand that if your team doesn’t pay ‘the going rate’ for talent that blossoms – and the Steelers have often lagged badly in that area – year after year of losing well-cultivated people because the $$$ is elsewhere, often equates to NFL losing.

Don’t sweat the D, appreciate the Good Next Steps

Rozeboom’s 135 tackles with the Rams last season sounds close to how many total tackles Panthers might have made while giving up 179.8 ypg – nobody should disparage a linebacking addition like that. Trevin Wallace only had 30 solo tackles as he worked his way into rotation, but with faith in Morgan’s eye for talent, put an asterisk next to his name as watchable. DJ Wonnum has several good years (8 sacks in ‘23, ’21) in Minnesota on his resume before coming to Charlotte, but only played in eight games for the Panthers. Josey Jewell had a solid track record as a coverage LB in Denver, and 3.5 sacks in 12 games here.

Never doubt Morgan is willing to haunt NFL waiver wires for linebackers or whatever else, like basic bodies to finish last season. The Panthers have a number of unknown names with OLB/LB designation who will have difficulty making the 2025 roster (Barno, Basham, Dyson, Incoom, Rhattigan, DJ Johnson, Windham), and International selection Mapalo Mwansa. Last season’s break out FA was WR Jalen Coker, who made original 53-man roster, was let go when Morgan pulled eight final cuts by other teams onto Panthers roster, then brought back from taxi squad to do solidly good things in creating hope late in season.

Clowney was labeled ‘a generational talent’ when drafted (Texans, 2014), but moving his contributions on to another team now because two stud DEs were drafted, why? When so many laud the Eagles for keeping extra pressure on opposing offenses with a strong ‘second’ defensive group, Clowney can hunt for sacks and TFL (tackle for loss) instead of being The One to try slowing whole running attacks down.

Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero reclaiming his professional shine quickly with this influx of new, well-documented personnel is a clear expectation, and projecting a one game uptick in wins isn’t how things are looking to fans.

Bringing it comes down to $$$ part, +400 is the line on Panthers to win NFC South, meaning WAY more sports bettors believe its a better team compared to +1500 to win in 2024. Tampa Bay is favored to win the division again at +115.

Panther Football, Sports

‘No excuses’ is NOT Attitude Evero’s defense will play with, Production Emphasis Draft Produces Two Edge Studs-Plus

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on ‘No excuses’ is NOT Attitude Evero’s defense will play with, Production Emphasis Draft Produces Two Edge Studs-Plus
A long time since being this good, defense rises in Charlotte
Classic Season One, 1995, Sam Mills v. Steve Young at Clemson.

Had the Panthers taken a dangerous step in keeping DC Ejiro Evero’s leadership of blown-up 2024 defense after losing LB corps from #4 rank year before?

In short, no. Given A-1 new pieces in exactly the most necessary places – edge rusher, nose, safety – doesn’t throw shade at anyone, pros like Clowney and Wooten understand accumulating better personnel is the nature of NFL business. Clowney feels like on a mission, same for Thielen (and his mini-me, #6 Horn, the other Colorado WR from Hunter).

HC Canales said on arrival that he liked full TE and RB rooms, call it accomplished. O-line and Chuba are a given, yes, Brooks is going to be a moot idea in 2025, Dowdle the leader in clubhouse for near future…Based on straight up Quality picks and deals made, with an A+ rating from Pro Football Focus, #MrTeppers$ might want to ease into some picture taking of ‘non-meddling billionaire owner, with GM Dan Morgan, April 26, 2025.’

YES! on Production

The most impressive numbers so far was free agent Rozeboom (‘FlowerPower’? nah) and his 135 tackles, and he didn’t start until mid-season. On a Panthers defense where ‘pressure’ wasn’t an often-enough accurate event, his projected run-stopping cred, and obvious plus-power of #2 Nic Scourton and #3 Princely Umanmielen https://pantherswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/panthers/2025/04/25/nfl-draft-expert-grades-panthers-tetairoa-mcmillan/83267508007/ represents how WAY high on the organizations radar it was regarded. To say Morgan has the respect of the room for making that double-dip, a bullseye clear checklist of Successful Hole Filling tour-de-force, yep.

Coming right back with a bookend, certified productive, mobile-agile-hostile from other side or interchangeable power rusher – along with good news from FA spending, esp. Moehrig at safety https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44194862/sources-trevon-moehrig-agrees-3-year-51m-deal-panthers was good. Getting Ohio St. safety Lathon Ransome was a bona fide cherry on top at #122, they don’t make ‘soft’ safeties at THE Ohio State University.

Jimmy Horn, Jr. (Colo.) in sixth round, one can’t blame Panthers for working productive offensive vein, this wasn’t a help-Bryce-Young-lots-more-or else draft like 2024 though. If Thielen passes legendary slot skills to Jimmy – a great expectation for Mr. T’s return as a glue guy who always gets open – is operating in his favor. Tough to get on the ground? Nope, *catching* him is toughest part. Return guy? Job’s available.

Not being an over-wiseguy to noteTrevor Etienne, Panthers draft (#114), was #4 pick for Mingo trade to Dallas (and ‘Boyz really needed a good RB). Any piece about Morgan getting fleeced is delusional. Not Pete Buttigieg handling a ‘gotcha!’ level question by a Fox host, I just doubt Morgan actually smiles when sliding into four pick shuffles. In on all the conversations? Yep, agree, accurate. Successful football operations guy? Aren’t you watching?

Canales and DC Evero are certainly happy about whats coming, all max effective for Panthers position needs on defense, and #1 on WR1 Tetairoa McMillan, an All-American with HUGE production at AZ.

Could someday be regarded as Mike Evans-like? The Bucs (and Brady’s) favorite target and future HOFer is worth emulating. HC Canales knows about Mike Evans, so does OC Brad Idzik, with Canales in Tampa Bay before Charlotte, and then Bryce Young, who pounded the table for McMillan. Everyone’s happy.

-GShork 4/27/25 Instant NFL credibility with huge target. Spare me if it affects Coker-Leggette’s fantasy value. Canales says couldn’t imagine sweeping top objectives, A+ rating. Next up – Expectations!

6.5 Wins and Beyond

Starting with a $20 bet on Panthers for NFC South (9-8) wouldn’t be the craziest place to begin thinking differently. Last year it was about +1500. Why isn’t anyone talking about Panthers O-line? Old saw is O-line gets talked about until its not a problem – and that Truth is a core confidence.

While cutting my sportswriter chops for ITS SPORTS! magazine in Tampa, the 1982-83 Tampa Bay Buccaneers went from worst to first in NFL, all the way to NFC title game. QB Doug Williams, Ricky Bell from USC at RB, a stout defense led by LeRoy Selmon and Huuuuugh! Green changed the whole Suckaneers idea. Is this season after 5-12 an NFL Belief moment for Charlotte fans?

Kinda, and whose not behind city-county part of $850 million upgrading of BOA stadium being green-lighted already? Just sayin’.

Give due credit for team improvements all around. Adding coachable depth pieces like 6’6″, 328 lbs. Cam Johnson (FL) at #140 to what became a toothless Panthers defense against the rush after star Derrick Brown went down for season in game one, is flat out smarter drafting for needs. This 2nd pick in 5th round came from the Brian Burns trade (NYGiants), and mid-picks are the meat of NFL GM picking. After, or because, the year Evero’s 3-4 defense had in 2024 was directly linked to personnel, keeping the DC and man-upping body counts/pressures was a great read, and Morgan delivered NFL-level newbies. Morgan already bought a FA nose tackle, check for getting another tough guy as stopper in trenches.

The first time McMillan goes fifty-plus long-striding yards on an NFL catch-run, or he and Leggette score in same game, Morgan becomes ‘That Guy Who.’ For me, ‘Trust Year 2 picks will be of a Quality’ is operationally on the money.

Mitchell Evans at #163 is another Notre Dame TE to fill HC Dave Canales running back/TE groups, with continued eye to a run-heavy attack. Tommy Tremble is a 3rd year guy in NFL from ND, and Panthers just put $$$ into his new contract, but Panthers aren’t keeping three TEs just cuz. They must be targets and run blockers to stick, its Canales Seahawks-Pete Carroll DNA. Ja’Tavion Sanders will get more targets, perhaps the legend of a Ninja Olsen production comes around. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4431588/jatavion-sanders

NFC South – Legitimate Expectations?

Truth be told, everyone has heard about QB and cap situations in ATL and N’awlins, right? On PAPER they don’t look like much, but its too early on this path for Panthers fans to disdain the competitiveness of anyone in the NFL.

Production based picking vs. faux ceilings or question marks was overarching hallmark of Carolina Panthers draft. If these picks indeed perform well enough to be part of NFL 53-man rosters or taxi-squad personnel after August, right now they’ve passed an elementary sniff test. Mentioning a highly-rated QB prospect that fell in dramatic fashion, those divisional foes didn’t help their situations anywhere near as well as the Carolina Panthers.

Hopes restored in a major way though, yeah. People have Ifs and Buts about ‘Before,’ and while its not Steve Rogers-to-muscled-up-Cap’n America transformation, Panthers today have more documented good players than in a while. NFL Attaboys! aside about ‘draft larceny’ are taken modestly; that four draft pick switcheroo deal doesn’t happen all the time though. How many open mouths watched Panthers #1 get used on a WR1, or dared say, ‘I knew that was coming’?

How many open mouths watched Panthers #1 get used on a WR1, or dared say, ‘I knew that was coming’?

Will the offensive line require any tinkering, like contract year extensions for the exceptionally steady Taylor Moton? Its okay to have questions about what’s Next for Panthers, or accept best practices filled every acknowledged hole on defense, at least addressed in FA spending and NFL draft is legit. Its not staking out 9-8 as ultimate goal, and defense getting essential personnel, its easy-legitimate to expect matters drop from being a quarter-mile worse than anyone in 2024 (179.8 ypg/game level) back to Normal.

Just reasonable Next, over .500 bet. Ten wins – who said dat?

Panther Football, Sports

Trusting Morgan Yr. 2 Starts Way Different with Elite WR1, McMillan

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Trusting Morgan Yr. 2 Starts Way Different with Elite WR1, McMillan

After a constant drumbeat of drafting defensive help as absolute necessity, super-productive AZ wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan as Panthers #1 pick was kind of astounding, and worthy of an ‘A’ no matter who you talk to. (Cowboys wanted at #12, too bad.) Morgan has a *bunch* more picks to continue improving DC Ejiro Evero’s defense in Year 3.

What’s not to like?

Morgan-Canales made it clear since free agency success that productivity at collegiate level and elsewhere would be given primary consideration, and Tet-Mc, legit? put up numbers at Arizona, https://pantherswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/panthers/2025/04/25/nfl-draft-expert-grades-panthers-tetairoa-mcmillan/83267508007/ especially in 2024 – 84 rec. for 1,319 yds./8 TDs. Whatever you might hear about his running style, at 6’4″, 219, he is going to become a problem as the best of size-speed improvements Panthers have brought together in receivers room any time recently.

TE Sanders and https://www.panthers.com/team/players-roster/ja-tavion-sanders/ Leggette have size and https://www.nfl.com/players/xavier-legette/ are burners, Coker is no slouch. McMillan declined to do a 40 yd. timing at combine, but Sanders has very similar catch radius, ‘near elite speed’ and 10″ hands as McMillan.

50/50 balls on ‘up’ routes will be in the Canales-Young red zone reads. – GShork 4/25/25

Its not jinxing anyone about Ghost of Olsen (just wouldn’t it be nice…), nor Steve Smith liking any new Panthers WRs, Canales says he likes full RB and TE rooms, and McMillan is certifiably best wide receiver in Panthers group since, well, Spartanburg ’18, watching DJ Moore and McCaffrey. (I predicted 100+ for C-MC, wound up 104 catches and that incredible 1000-1000 season.)

Is this a Homer talking about a designated Number One? No, its going to be a prevailing thought, and its definite, an accomplished, WR1 person has arrived. Most expectations are Leggette rides his Dollar Bill regularly as he’s rewarded for practices, extra coaching. Its not comparison shopping results or pre-judging any Cali Connection, but Year Two results are supposed to increase – coaches and players are graded on it.

The $$$ Panthers put into supporting offensive line for Young and NFL run game identity, its been done with a definite plan. So has McMillan, and yes, the free agent signings featured enough well-regarded NFL defensive support at specific points to allow for a stud receiver selection in Round 1. The focus on Walker as smoke? Meh. Its a deep defensive draft.

GM Morgan has eight more picks, six on defense okay? I suggested ‘Trust’ the other day, today I’m Justifiably Impressed with #1, not just drinking the Koolaid. How many more good guys can Panthers accumulate for 2025? Stay on path of best practices, Dan!