Carolina Huddle

Going into training camp, the Safety position is most likely the weakest the Carolina Panthers have in terms of quality and depth. Veteran Mike Minter, while still a serviceable veteran, last season showed signs of losing a step or three. This season there is a real opportunity for players to step up into a starting role.

Here is the cast:

#35 - Deke Cooper - Making his second round in Carolina, Deke played on the practice squad in 2002, was signed to the regular roster later that year, and ultimately released in Camp of 2003. Since then he has spent time in San Fran, Jacksonville, and Miami. Prognosis - Will be tough for Deke to make the squad this season, even as thin as they are. Not eligible for Practice Squad.

#39 - Jessie Daniels - LSU free agent rookie. Started 35 games on a solids LSU squad. Excellent size for a safety at 5′11 and 215 pounds. Known as LSU’s quarterback in the secondary, has leadership potential and knowledge of the game. Pronosis - Has a real chance of making the Practice Squad, and may actually make the roster if he can prove special teams value.

#30 - Mike Minter - You know him. You love him. His play declined in 2006, often missing tackles and behind in coverage. Still, the best option currently for the FS position.

#29 - Cam Newton - This guy has been signed and released more times in Atlanta than I care to hear about. Never able to see playing time. Prognosis - another body for training camp.

#33 - Nate Salley - The hopes, the dreams of the 2007 season may lie squarely on the shoulders of Salley. A fourth round selection last season, he was released in camp and promptly signed to the practice squad. Due to injuries on the roster, was signed to the regular roster in September where he remained. Salley was the starting SS in summer school this offseason. A big opportunity for a second year man. Sound familiar? it should. It reads almost exactly like Colin Branch. Lets hope it ends up better. Prognosis - Chance to shine.

#28 - Quinton Teal - From Big South powerhouse Coastal Carolina, Teal is a rookie Free Agent. Excellent size for a FS, at 6′1 and 187 pounds. Prognosis - work your butt off in special teams if you want to make the practice squad.

#27 - CJ Wilson - 7th round rookie out of Baylor, where he was a solid corner back. Wilson is this season’s player who could surprise people the most. He has the coverage skills and tackling ability to be a solid starter in the NFL, the only question is how quickly he can learn the Safety position? If new defensive backfield coach Mike Gillhamer is looking for an opportunity to show his worth, this young man provides it. Prognosis - real promise.

#?? - Unkown - Look for the Panthers to add another starting prospect late into camp as other teams are forced to cut down their roster.