Carolina Panthers Team Needs

By: Greg Davis

Offensive Line
Left tackle Jordan Gross was franchised and retained by Carolina for another year, but the right side needs help. The team may use their very first pick to secure a tackle who can come in and start immediately. Plus, if Gross and the team cannot work out a contract extension, he may be gone after this coming season, opening up another hole on at tackle. The Panthers will definitely address the position on draft day by taking a shot on what they hope will be a stud tackle.

Defensive Line
At defensive tackle, Carolina has to look for Kris Jenkins’ replacement. Jenkins was traded away to the Jets this off-season, and the team now lacks depth and solid talent at the position. Once the offensive tackle solution is found, the defensive tackle position won’t be far behind. Defensive end Julius Peppers’ effectiveness doesn’t solely hinge on the tackles, but their play can make his life and the entire Carolina defenses’ lives a lot easier.

Safety
At free safety, the Panthers have added Terrence Holt in the hopes that he can be effective, but his consistency is questionable, and with Holt being perhaps the best roster player at the position, Carolina will need to look for another safety in the draft. If they can snag a free safety early or in the middle rounds, it would be a positive move for the defensive unit. It would also provide the team with youth to develop at the position, whether or not that player is an instant starter.

Running Back
With the departure of DeShaun Foster, the team lost its starting running back, and the only back on the roster who has shown that he can carry a significant amount of the load out of the backfield. DeAngelo Williams could very well develop into a good NFL running back, but his size and lack of experience will force the team to look at other options this coming season. With Williams having breakaway potential, the a power back who can move the chains and keep defenses on their toes would be a nice compliment to Williams and the offense.