Four suit Sunday is Great! for my Microeconomy, Panthers 20-17 loss still leaves in 1st place

Compared to most of two years home alone with a screen, back on the suit-selling and chatting with many is good by me.

While knocking it out in suit-selling punctuated first week back in retail, its also super-affirming how many former customers have recognized I gave them desired great service in 2023, good to have me back.

Nothing I saw in 15 min. clip for Carolina Panthers-Saints when I got home- 5 sacks and only 81 yds. rushing by defense- despite 11 penalties, I couldn’t see how they lost. Guess you had to see the total badness, its not usual ‘We wuz robbed!’ when NFL is checking things out.

In fact, it was playing for first place, NFL level defense, and Panthers still need 2-of-3 wins down the stretch. My season projection, and $20 worth of FanDuel (-450) on the proposition, 9-8 and in position to take NFC South, was a small gamble- most fans know thats often enough here.

The Carolina Panthers are looking at a Bucs sandwich now, with Seahawks between, to put down new markers. Staying over .500 is a must, Division Winner! is the organizational grail. I didn’t figure losing both games to Saints, buuuut OMG! if NFL investigation is actually happening.

Employment, Productive Microeconomy, a Sweet Writing Schedule

Having known before Thanksgiving that I’d have a good bill-paying retail job in SouthPark, I’ve commented that it was cool to be manager’s #1 draft pick when department had an opening, at least not going to Raiders. He hired me four years ago too, as COVID was ending. As previously noted, I believe the economy is way different now than ’21-’22.

As a career salesperson and journalist-Writer, my communications skills are A-1 and flexible. I’ve always been killer determining what people want-need in helpful manner- I get paid on how well I accomplish that. Working the closing schedule (2-9:30), I can automatically schedule two to four hour blocks for writing weekly, go for bike rides on 3 mi. Booty Loop nearby, grocery shop, and have lunch meetings- its two miles to work!

Lucky? I maintain highly qualified- you’ll appreciate the difference. I am king of the Hugo Boss blue suit, appreciate the Jack Victor and Canali lines, and will discuss the difference between a sports coat and an $875 unstructured jacket if you don’t already know.

I cheered for the gent who tried on, literally, every blue-tinged jacket in the department, *except* a reddish-purple blue one, just said, No. ‘No, what?’ wifey asked. ‘No, honey?’ cracked me up. All agreed a beauty of a jacket, but he had no interest.

Guys who say yay or nay, great when they try things on. A younger, maybe thirty guy becoming CEO of a company after selling two previous ones, really wanted an image suit. Does he know how to pull the trigger when shown the goods? You betcha.

Right now, its like Maverick’s ‘target rich environment.’ Oh, open till 10:00…

Am I insulated from what’s about to be a tougher microeconomy for many? I know there’s a 22% hack in my Medicaid starting in January, but I’m effectively earning about $30/hr. on two weeks this first pay period; I’m effectively doubling my Social Security income. I still have $151 of SNAP benefits, which I really needed this time last year.

I try to keep a bag of groceries in the car for less fortunate Others, even some frozen meat, but no Pampers. Never let it be said you’ve done less than the least possible when its crunch time. When tossing a couple bucks, I believe $3 is way better than 2.

I stand strong on being a BoomerwithAttitude, and since the boost I felt as a Precinct Judge (D) on Nov. 4, and whats happened across the country until now, I’m still confident in my microeconomy, my democracy, and those Carolina Panthers grading solid B+.

The pen is a classic because I made it with Dad in Tampa long ago. I still chuckle at his ‘worst ever worked with’ assessment- I got the ultimate one-off souvenir I wanted.

Panthers back to Earth at 4-4, Hornets (3-4), Crown loses 1-0, then Wins 7-6 in penalty kicks

Didn’t actually get a good read of the World Series, Attaboys! to Jays ,but while few know what ‘s under a Wizard’s hat. Shorkknows had a tough week of NFL football.

Okay, the question of Loserville being in Charlotte professional sports rear view mirror- NFL, NBA, MSL for starters- was actually rhetorical. ‘Escape velocity’ is still down the line.

QB Dalton (ehhhh) and RB Dowdle (!! Canales!!) are difference makers mas or menos, but seriously, nothing negative about Chuba or Kalkbrenner.

Halloween tricks probably won’t continue into Sunday’s game against Green Bay for Panther fans, and although 13 points might entice bettors, there are plenty of alternatives for this long-time sports bettor. No sense worrying about the home team when the Raiders are only getting 3 pts. from the Jaguars and the Giants (-2.5) are only getting a couple from the 49ers. While the Giants have screwed me religiously my entire betting life- and my 50th high school reunion was only a month ago- I won’t take Panthers game either way. Its more about the Hamiltons than Benjamins at this point, and although I’ll watch and cheer for them, no sense letting a good parlay get torpedoed.

Actually, scratch that ‘tude. Made Ed. Note- Just after kickoff, recognizing I couldn’t be a weenie about Panthers predictions, ‘If Bryce *doesn’t* blow things up and have to play from 14 pts. behind- just saying, we know that’s been a problem. Pass rush HAS to arrive today, taking good O-line making long drives, T-Mc and all others catching vs. dropping, Yes, Panthers beat the spread by scoring average 21.

Denver (-1.5!) in Houston sure feels like a gift, with 36 sacks by defense and Bo Nix picking up where he left off rookie year, which was pretty damn good. Whether it would be a sportscaster jinx for anyone in the TV booth or for a writer to suggest Colts QB Dan Jones (formerly an unappreciated Giant) could be a Comeback Player of the Year candidate- usually the domain of injured players vs. just hated for contract-production of wins negativity- suggesting Indy continue best practices, yeah, BUT… Maybe they open the proverbial can of whupass on the Aaron Rodgers Steelers, after Tomlin’s Monday Night’s performance. Give minimal three points? Done.

I’d also suggest taking the Lions (-8.5) against the Vikings, because Detroit is still working off a couple decades of being thumped by the Vikes and Packers. There’s no reason to believe Mr. Shough (really? the ending sounds like a K?) will have anything except ugly from pretty early against the Rams.

Guess what? Panthers game is only one I backed that pulled its weight. Its not 100% make a difference in season moment yet, but over .500 would certainly be progress, and just sayin’, Over-Under for Panthers W is only 6.5. https://www.foxsports.com/articles/nfl/2025-26-carolina-panthers-odds-odds-to-win-super-bowl-nfl-playoffs-division

‘The Other Guys’

In the MLS playoffs, Charlotte’s 4th seeded Crown lost the first game at home 1-0 to #5 seed NYCFC on a 34th minute goal by Alonso Martinez. Charlotte FC forward Wilfried Zaha, who was red-carded in the season finale and missed this game, was a considerable loss offensively. They went to NYC for the second leg of a cumulative score series Saturday, and evened the series with a 1-0 penalty shootout (7-6) win. Charlotte FC Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina stopped Agustin Ojeda for the finale. Teams will have an extended time before Game 3 Friday.

The Hornets, who hit a terrific 18-3s and nine players with double figures in their season opener against Brooklyn Nets, were much less prolific in second week of the season, are now 2-3 after being whacked by the Miami Heat 144-117, and Orlando Magic (2-4) last night, 123-107. Kon Kneuppel, who had five of the Hornets triples in opener, had one last night, and five points in 27 minutes, avg. 30 min. court time and shooting 41% from 3. Center Ryan Kalkbrenner continued his solid play with 17 points and 7 rebounds, and definite rim protector. Lorenzo Ball had a 17 point, 13 assist night, and is averaging 26.3 pts., 9.5 asst, 8.3 rebounds, Moussa Diabate had ten points and six rebounds. He and Kalkbrenner could become a tandem.

Loserville might be a state of mind, but in the betting world, you are frequently either the predator or the prey. The Panthers opened the season at +400 regarding winning the NFC South (FanDuel) is currently +700. Go figure…The Hornets (3-5) after losing 116-112 to Pelicans, is playing in the sorry Southeast Division, +2200 to win their division, ahead of the (honestly, still listed as an NBA team?) Washington Wizards at +25000, the Magic at +100.

Panthers 0-2 start isn’t fatal, but like Legette production and O-line injuries, far from reassuring

Admitting I turned off the game immediately after the first few disastrous minutes (only a field goal after INT? Whew!) to take a bike ride in optimal weather instead, doesn’t make me a really bad fan. Holding Cardinals to 82 yards rushing is a *major* improvement from Week 1, and Renfrow’s two TD catches is better news overall, so we’ll see how home opener vs. ATL goes…

Guessing that the most often Googled question in Charlotte was, “How many NFL teams recover from 0-2 starts to make the playoffs?” the answer is of 288 teams hitting that mark since 1990, 88% didn’t participate in second season, and only three- ’93 Cowgirls (uhhh, Cowboys), ’01 Patriots, and ’07 NY Giants- won Super Bowls. Fourteen have made the playoffs since 2014- including the LA Rams and Baltimore Ravens, who won their divisions last year- when NFL started 17 game seasons, which added a little extra room for early season non-success.

The Terrible Ten on 0-2 spot in 2025

While the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans are factually in this unhappy place, most oddsmakers give them a much better chance at being like the Rams or Ravens, especially since Ravens still have RB Derrick Henry battering anyone who wants a piece of him, Lamar Jackson’s arms and legs are still attached, and there’s a hard core, #1 rated defense to hold the fort against almost anyone not having Josh Allen (or Mahones) to do battle with.

Of the rest, most are chronic Losers:

  • Saints have tapped this level 24x in 59 seasons. Even in a division with three teams at 5-12 last year, many will count on two Ws when they play the ‘Aints, mostly because of an extremely iffy QB situation.
  • Browns- No surprise here. Brownies have gone 0-2 sixteen times, have *5* QBs in the building if you count the pile of bones that was once DeShaun Watson, a 40+ year old statue named Flacco, and two rookies who get nothing but crap for their relative situations, especially Coach Prime’s kid, Shedeur, who arrived as a 5th round pick (but tortured the Panthers in preseason game).
  • Jets- You really only wondered how often, right? New Head Coach Aaron Glenn has brought Hope, but she and Lady Luck usually leave NY well before the end of each season. No playoffs since 2010, five times at 0-2 mark in last nine years, and with QB Justin Fields in concussion protocol, retread Tyrod Taylor is at the controls. Better off than Panthers? Read any NY paper for sports writers and regular people opinions (NOT!).
  • Titans and Dolphins- They belong in same boat, because there’s no telling what HC Brian Callahan (3-16 in coaching career) or rookie QB Cam Ward can actually produce, and the often-injured (concussions) Tua Tagovailoa, while sometimes steering a productive offense, can’t be relied on to finish a season. Mike McDaniels occupies one of the warmest head coaching spots at this point, no specific improvement- defense is giving up 33 ppg – could end his reign. He gets questions about that for a reason.
  • Dah Bearz- *Nobody* is giving them any slack about blowing an early lead in 27-24 Game 1 loss to Vikings, and the 52 points division rival Detroit thwapped! them with Week 2 is MILES shy of the salvation fannies expected from new Head Coach Ben Johnson, well, immediately.

So where do Bryce, Canales, Carolina Panthers stand?

Starting with Canales admonition that, “Sometimes its better to eat it-take the loss,” any group of Little Leaguers would have known when a play is going badly, DON’T try to save it with a miracle throw. Yes, that fluttery INT by Young was when heading out for a bike ride seemed like a better idea than blowing away an extremely quiet and satisfying couple days with friends out in western NC, by watching a rotten game.

That Bryce slung it all over the lot (35/55, 328 yds./3 TDs/1 INT, 1 fumble) without his arm falling will stand as a basis for judgement the rest of season. Renfrow coming back after not making 53-man roster, and Young finding him in tight spaces is legitimate QB-ing and clearly positive. McMillan hitting 100 yards was affirming as anyone could ask for, yes, Legette’s eight targets and -2 yards isn’t going to be helpful compared to Tremayne’s 3 catches for 48 yds., Sanders 7/54 yds., Hubbard 5 catches/39 yds. and even TE Tremble’s productive 3/20 yds.

Anyone who thinks ‘I’ve talked with (DC Ejiro Evero) about playing our young guys’ is sufficient input from HC Canales, a common thread for fans is HE BETTER!

Giving Panthers credit for having a chance down the stretch is done with knowledge of several games last year where the final result was an L, which only rated some polite golf-applause for 5-12 season. They are neither the powerful group that Ravens or Chiefs are with a similar record, nor the Brownies, who will continue to take considerable crapola for being a franchise that tortures their fans, or Bears, who *might* get it righter in 2025 but are still prime time torturers themselves.

Wide receiver DJ Moore still works exceptionally well in Chicago, producing an outstanding 2024 with 98 catches and 6 TDs, although his yardage (966) was down from 2023, as Ray Odunze got considerable targeting by rookie QB Caleb Williams when he wasn’t constantly on the run, being sacked 68 times.

Dammit! about RG Robert Hunt (torn bicep) and C Austin Corbett- whose unreal series of injuries might extend another season- could be out for extended periods or in Hunt’s case, even the entire year. The Panthers O-line were supposedly safe for once, having brought back essentially two deep personnel from the 2024 offensive line, Canales said Cade Mays and Corbett were a coin flip difference in readiness at center. Christensen is a legitimate piece to flex in at right guard, but losing both means another call for GM Dan Morgan to locate additional quality personnel on whatever taxi squads he can identify.

The ATL pass rush (six sacks) looked strong against Minnesota’s J.J. McCarthy https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/vikings-vs-falcons-live-updates-game-score-sunday-night-football/live/ and Bryce Young was blown away early by the Cardinals blitzing, so the possibility Young’s confidence in the pocket reverts to the early season woes of 2024 must be dealt with by keeping him upright on Sunday.

‘These are the times that try…’ relative to Panthers, not just USA, cheers to Irmo team for LLWS thrills

This one’s for ump with clutch call on tag at 2nd base in LLWS game, and football operations for Panthers, putting a much-better product on the field in 2025.

Politics aside on mens #&%!?# souls or lack thereof, after a 6-run rally in seventh inning carried Irmo to victory the night before, the Southeast reps were part of youthful glory everywhere for Little Leaguers, families, and fannies. Panthers now at cut-down time to 53, fans should hope GM Morgan has that A+ touch one more time (for a linebacker?) before Sept. 7th game with Jags in Jacksonville.

September 8th I have some Precinct Judge (D) duties in prep for local elections on 9th. I wonder about current political soul-ry more often lately. Stephen Miller is for sure wrong though, Tibetan circulatory exercises from online actually work, making me an active 68 who doesn’t usually require the nap. CBD drops are hemp… Yeah, Blue & Yellow combo is a protest for Ukraine.

As a sports fan, and considering retiring as an active Blue (umpire), I watched a full share of LLWS, and congrats to those young players, and an overall thrilling run of TV human moments and sportsmanship. The ‘Believe’ their coach laid on them before that near-miraculous comeback, its a touch better than ‘Win one for the Gipper.’ Yay! Coach.

The call at second, where Irmo runner *barely* wanders off, as catcher heaves it down after passed ball that might’ve opened a door for another Southeast rally, and fielder waves a slap-tag at him ‘just because,’ ump was right on it for OUT! Just sayin’.

Proud Blue raises a cold one to you gentlemen, and to your dedicated leadership, those coaches and these moments will be forever memories. Its not hyperbole to say its the American Way I grew up with, everybody can appreciate laying it on the line, somebody wins.

SURPRISES?! For 2025 Roster – room for a couple Others

August 26th is now the operational date for getting down to 53 on main roster, plus 16 on taxi squad. The Panthers work on best practices in front office, and are very aware they can’t afford to let other teams poach precious nuggets like Horn or Brycen Tremayne, who has a well-documented https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article311718130.html stretch of good days during training, scrimmages, and productive preseason efforts.

Up close, its a tough call on keeping six or seven receivers on 53-man roster – most had penciled Renfrow as #6. Please don’t trade Thielen back to Vikes! to make room. To be a hero again back there, maybe – guy deserves to be part of a great year, could definitely mentor Horn.

Trevor Ettiene probably won’t be a surprise keeper, a sweet return last night was affirmation he’s the return-special teams talent they’ve wanted. UDFA Thornton as a DB seems like a lock for Panther rotation, his strong final preseason game with Steelers nothing but good news. -GShork 8/22/25

If many aren’t 100% sold on Nick Scott at safety opposite Moehrig, Canales vote will count. Chau Smith-Wade is going to be a bona-fide https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4697636/chau-smith-wade cover guy this year. Ransom had an INT last night, the prospects of being both strong cover and the traditional Ohio St. run-support football guy will help put DC Ejiro Evero’s reputation back on more righteous track.

Penciling in one more unforeseen linebacker pickup by Morgan to give that group actual depth is reasonable. A major factor in 2024, bodies-personnel were brought in/started in under a week several times during injury-plagued season. The roster has been restocked with players with documented productivity for 2025, Windmon and Rhattigan should see their names on it. Shy Tuttle might well be leaving, or kept as affordable backup.

Is Wallace ready to be All That for Panthers defense in Year 2? GM Morgan showed his quality marksmanship in free agency, before an A+ draft as rated by PFF, using #2 and #3 picks on hard-charging defensive ends. Panthers have been within three of bottom sack position and pressures for years. Anything like that 3,000 given up rushing isn’t going to be allowed. Nose tackle Cam Jackson (6’6″, 328 lbs, Florida) will get plenty of reps.

A Four-Point better Offense – You Better Believe It

The Panthers are far from the worst ppg team in the NFL at 20.1 – that would be the Giants (16.1) and Cleveland at (15.2). NFL avg. – 22.4 https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/carolina-panthers-average-points-per-game

GM Dan Morgan has built a healthy level of respect league wide for being a super-cagey front office guy legend, starting early with a major log on the fire, drafting a true WR1 with #8 pick, Tetairoa McMillan while rest of NFL was thinking deee-fense! https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/news/carolina-panthers-rookie-tetairoa-mcmillan-value-picks Camp video showed T-Mac tracking-catching a perfect over the top, fade to outside shoulder, tight coverage throw, and then everyone saw same deal, with a one-arm catch in first exhibition game. That’s not just reputation or trick mirrors, its WR1 grade play.

Its painful that anyone feels Leggette’s position as first round draft choice last year (Morgan’s initial career biggie deal) is somehow diminished to ‘secondary sidekick’ status if T-Mac becomes All That as a rookie. Second years are frequently the jumping off year for such players, extra coaching counts. NOBODY can find fault with the obvious effort XL has put into becoming a better ‘hands’ receiver, certainly not HC Canales, whose loyalty to efforts for better by all individuals is strong. Yes, there are expectations.

Canales previous relationships with WR Moore might be enough at decision point this time. If Panthers could afford to keep seven receivers, he has got special teams efforts as hole card, like Etienne will in staying as a back. (Ed. Note – Renfrow comes back! after Coker injury, Thielen trade.)

CHUBA HUBBARD https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4241416/chuba-hubbard deserves to get name in CAPS, and Morgan got #2 back Rico Dowdle, a 1,000 yards gainer for Cowboys, FREE! when they neglected to offer him any deal. The option of a second, seriously good back behind the Panthers well-regarded, and 100% back intact, two deep O-line, is an absolute strength in 2025. Bryce Young’s comfort level in the pocket, and on-the-run accuracy when waving Coker to backline spot for toe-tap TD, continues an upward affirmation of his offensive control.

‘Things can happen,’ but fans faith in Panthers rebuilding as a professional football operation again, is being handled correctly, with long-term Success on the table, and pride very possible for upgrading, is primed. Collecting on any impulse bets about Over/Under 6.5 wins would be a start on satisfying some seasonal expectations.

A consistent, semi-legendary fact, about how long it took Carolina Panthers fans to believe in last Super Bowl team – ’twas Game Ten, that Thanksgiving blowout of Dallas, Panthers still unbeaten – is kind of the local standard. Expectations in 2025 are better aligned with level of enthused Believin’ like those Little Leaguers did. Congrats! again to them, loved the ride.

Camp day with Browns becomes Preseason Fri.! Defense is Teed Up, Expect to see Run, Passing – Sure…

Head Coach Dave Canales announcing starters would get some reps in pre-season was a change from 2024, when fear of injury to front-liners without personnel for ‘next man up’ philosophy made them seem physically over-matched, as Saints shoved them around in 45-10 rout that followed Panthers all season. Injuries, including Jonathan Brookes 2nd knee (ACL) and Josey Jewels concussion protocol, are not actual factors now. Derrick Brown and Ejiro Evero’s defensive front seven, with plenty to improve on in 2025, won’t be talking smack, just NFL production every game.

This is a much better than 6-11 team making micro-improvements. Yes, if not the farm, put some resources on over 6.5 wins, and +400 (projected 3rd!) for NFC South beckons mightily.

If the Browns don’t show out in all-brown gear tomorrow, I’ll be mildly thankful for the non-dookies visual. Should we anticipate a lot of pads cracking action? Chuba Hubbard is the Lead Dawg, have to believe offensive line stakes out some attitude for him. Position ranking, Panthers have essentially two full O-lines, so offense is seeing starters action.

Trust the system Mr. Right Tackle

Taylor Moton got a little emotional about contract situation recently, I’d say trust the system Mr. Right Tackle. Extending at max rate isn’t out of the question, playing both your team and yourself into higher-greater Success has been rewarded on regular basis with #MrTeppers$.

HC Dave Canales won’t be showcasing a full playbook of possibilities, but T-Mac and XL are more than just decorations, and, well, everyone DOES want to know about going downfield. McMillan IS a physical mismatch for anyone, and fannies-the NFL would like to see how far his stride gets him regarding ‘fast.’ He’s not doing four steps and button hook routes like the chunky kid back in the neighborhood games, and he’s tracked over-the-shoulder stuff in camp situation videos, so yes, we’ll probably see a couple long balls.

If XL gets to show off another catch-run like at FanFest (39 yards), there can be quiet optimism about whether he fully becomes a tough cover for defenses based on that physicality. I’d never peg him a failure if the whole WR room had a collective big year and Leggette missed 1,000 yards with 60 grabs (49 in 2024) through distribution. If fantasy league projects double (8) TDs from him, what should McMillan’s stats look like? Yes, there are expectations now, and amping the YAC vs. very avg. 10 per catch would make him a dangerous WR2.

Can MORE than the six (or seven, Renfrow’s in, right?) expected WRs figured as locks for final roster possibly get a chance for reps? (Yes.) Andy Dalton and Jack Plummer should get opportunities to air things out, so best practices says some footballs in the air Friday. Last year the UDFA (undrafted free agents) names were DB Demani Richardson and WR Jalen Coker. Do your adding and subtracting on this. https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/roster/_/name/car/carolina-panthers

Competition for jobs, yep, pads are on. LB Bam Scott-Martin has definitely had his chance to impress in preseason improved with Panthers release of veteran OLB Josey Jewels because he’s still in concussion protocol, seven months after injury.

Things happening Elsewhere

Should I actually care what comes out of four QBs situation in Cleveland, even if its up close or on free TV? I’d say no, because I’m no fan at all of Pickett, and what would be a good outing for Gabriel or Sanders? If Sanders went 6/13, 68 yards, 1/1 TD-INT, would that satisfy anything? 150 yards, 3/1 – doubt he gets the reps to produce that – but I’d say hmmmmm for sure. Defense? Gotta see it, big and bad.

Should we poke the J-E-T-S! about Fields yet? Maybe its just a tick of mine, but every time I see ‘hope’ in sentence with his name, *twitch.*

Amazing how everyone recognized the weight on Caleb Williams in Chicago (68 sacks, LOT of weight) was tough on #1 pick, so how Bryce Young made it to current level with second half of season progress becomes more ‘Yeah, that’s how QBs used to age, Year Three (plus more talented people around them if possible) you saw Better.’

Sure, some QB Whisperer must’ve happened there, and now its not, ‘A year before end of his rookie contract, are we sure about…?’ Yes, GM Dan Morgan should be up for Exec of Year consideration, the needle has clearly been moved.

Panthers signed their 2nd round DE (Nic Scourton) and #3 Princely Umanmielen (Florida) before the Bengals got #1 pick, and Stewart was often mentioned as a defensive pick https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45824885/shemar-stewart-bengals-hammer-home-language-reach-deal for Panthers pre-draft. Instead, Morgan picked T-Mac at #8, and #2 Scourton participated in all Panthers team activities during camp.

Big difference in rookie attitude, Bengals putting certain language in contract because, ‘We don’t want to pay for (potentially) four years in jail,’ not hearing that with ‘Our kind of guys’ in Charlotte. Just sayin’.

Out in Vegas with Raiders, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1QZ4KhIxYE I’m willing to hope Austin Jeanty does well, his first NFL moment wasn’t so memorable though. If anyone can turn that operation around, Pete Carroll has previously done wonders with Gino in Seattle, and there’s Brock Bowers killing it, but it’s still the AFC West, with Chiefs, Chargers, Broncos, a tough place to get well quickly.

Nix proved he can sling it, Panthers picked up ‘Turk’ Wharton https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45441385/nfl-carolina-panthers-tershawn-turk-wharton from Chief’s defense in a salary cut move that improves Panthers defense in a big way. Overlooking the Saints, sorry, taking two from them is in everyone’s calculations, splitting with Buccaneers would open up possibilities for sure.

Full WR room, Chuba and superior O-line, major upgrades to Defense – Plenty to like about 2025 Panthers

As hot as Charlotte is – I put together a late lunch and almost passed out in my apartment because I didn’t turn on the AC as soon as I entered – and pads at practice has begun, best of thoughts for the process next 40 days holds for Panthers.

Yes, the Carolina Panthers have dragged the lower rungs of NFL forever it seems (‘just seven’ misses mark), but MrTeppers$ has got to be pleased with promising changes for football operations in Year II of GM Morgan, Head Coach Dave Canales, and $$$ guy-VP Brandt Tilis.

At a time when actual physical heat in Charlotte is regularly tapping high 90s, fan enthusiasm is clearly warming up too, based on a strong second half to 2024-25 season by QB Bryce Young, terrific drafting by Morgan, and the best practices accumulation of essential talent the franchise hasn’t had available in far too long.

From the return of defensive standout Derrick Brown, the selection of WR Tetaroia McMillan (#8) at top of A+ rated draft, an actual kicker competition (!!) and good news about TE Ja’Tavian Sanders (neck injury-midseason, 33 catches/342 yds./TD), Panther fans almost certainly won’t be selling their season tickets to football fans from elsewhere on a weekly basis.

First day in pads, minor problems

Several names have already been replaced by newly signed possibilities on 90-man pre-season roster, and that’s going to be a consistent churn for most of forty days, until week before the season opener vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 7th.

Elements like rookie DE Princely Umanmielen (Kentucky) tapping Young’s arm in practice, LB Trevin Wallace and RB Chuba Hubbard exchanging pleasantries after a sideline hit, or offensive lineman Chandler Zavala getting a knee tweaked blocking Brown, forging a squad that expects to push Tampa Bay for the NFC South title has begun in earnest.

Just FYI, kickers Matt Wright and Ryan Fitzgerald (FSU) have both gone 7/10 on the skinny goal posts thus far. Fitzgerald was a finalist for 2024 Lou Groza Award, going 13/13 on FGs, 14/14 on extra points, and 5/5 over 50 yards. (Eddie who?)

Fans won’t get to see practices with plays like T-Mac’s outstanding grab on a perfectly thrown pass to beat safety Mike Jackson’s tight coverage, Clemson product Hunter Renfrow showing his route-running ability didn’t disappear during over a year out of football with ulcerative colitis, or just how fast-elusive 6th round pick Jimmy Horn, Jr. is compared to Panther legend Steve Smith. Horn was QB Shedeur Sanders ‘other’ receiver at Colorado, opposite Heisman winner Travis Hunter, but lacking the option of attending practices this year and next due to construction, fans may have to content themselves with tracking the coming and goings of personnel on a paper roster https://www.nfl.com/teams/carolina-panthers/roster or online resources.

A dozen names you might not have heard (or continue not to): Bailey, Basham, Gifford, Dafney, Harrison-Hunte, Hudson, Incoom, Kandar, Losoya, Ray, Reid, Tarquin – will be knocking heads in the heat with returning players and whomever GM Dan Morgan and Brandt Tilis feel might improve the team’s return to professional NFL respectability.

ANTICIPATION – Absolutely!

While injuries are always a rationale for lesser performance team-wise – and Morgan will get props for his efforts both last year and putting a much better group of bodies on the field this time around – Canales has achieved his stated desire to have full WR, RB, TE rooms to work with in 2025-26. TE Sanders comes back lighter and faster after his neck injury, and is expected to become the red zone presence Panthers drafted him (Texas) for last year.

Whether any of three tight ends can evoke positives to Greg Olsen, WR Jalen Coker https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4695883/jalen-coker can hopefully expand on a very solid first year, and highly motivated Xavier Leggett (49/497/4 TD) could be a major contributor if drops concerns are mitigated.

DC Ejiro Evero was brought back despite a year where Panthers defense gave up 31.4 ppg, over 3,000 rushing (179.8 per game), and registered only 32 sacks (Broncos blitz-happy D led NFL with 63) and nine INTs – but had a #4 ranked defense the year before. Morgan spent freely to sign free agents to solidify all three levels of that unit, and while there’s no chance that Derrick Brown could reduce those numbers by himself, bringing that rushing average down ten spots (Patriots, 131.4) or ATL level (#16, 120.6) would be an excellent goal.

The addition of free agent safety Tre’von Moehrig from Raiders and Lathon Ransom, a thumper from Ohio State, should help both run support and in coverage on back end. Having a bona fide nose guard (Bobby Brown III) vs. Shy Tuttle, and 6’6″, 328 lb. Florida Gator nose man Cam Jackson figures to change that 3K problem as well.

The linebacking crew will miss Josey Jewell in coverage, and he tied A’Shawn Robinson with top sack total of 5.5, but was released because he is still in concussion protocol seven months after the injury. FA Christian Rozeboom (135 tackles, Rams) will be truly appreciated from Day 1.

NFC South title in play? Yep!

Without getting excessively enthused about three close losses to playoff teams (Tampa Bay, Philadelphia, Kansas City), .500 is the next level of achievement for Panthers to strive for. They were hosed in Buccaneers game at home when Adam Thielen’s TD catch at back of end zone was disallowed by an official and *apparently* video replay didn’t 100% confirm it. Panthers Hubbard then lost a fumble in OT and Bucs kicked a FG for the win.

Few have forgotten Leggette’s drop of a pass that would have put them in a position to win in Philly, and his dedication to catching with his hands vs. letting ball get into his body has been discussed since, and sweaty videos of that dedication are legitimate. His opinion that defenses won’t be able to double cover both T-Mac and himself is more legitimate than puffing of pride. If Horn brings back memories of ‘Stevie Superstar89,’ who was considered just a punt returner as a rookie but became an iconic receiver here, Leggette is Mushin Muhammed size with hellacious wheels, and there’s nothing wrong with holding that picture up for consideration either.

Adam Thielen figures to get his share of looks/catches from the slot to help move the sticks, and after Chuba Hubbard was rewarded for his solid efforts https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/4241416/chuba-hubbard with a four year, $33.2MM contract that allowed the Panthers offensive line to control more game time while still protecting Young, many of the pieces of a successful season are in place. Adding a 1,000 rusher (Rico Dowdle) when the Cowboys didn’t do anything possible to keep him in their backfield means plenty in bigger picture.

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.

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.

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?

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.