Hope and Change in 09
January 18, 2009
Of course you have heard it for months now. Hope, change, hope about change and changing our hopes.
Didn’t think it would bleed over to Panthers football did you?
Well, it has, and the offseason of 2009 will go down as one of hope and change for the Carolina Panthers.
Change is coming, and fairly quickly. Our good friend Darin Gantt has reported that the Panthers front office, who historically has blocked defensive staff from interviewing elsewhere, is now allowing it this season. Defensive backs coach Tim Lewis is interviewing for a Defensive Coordinator position. The phone will not ring for Panthers defensive coordinator Mike Trgovac, however. It has been silent for 5 seasons now. The odds of him being replaced in Carolina this offseason is 50/50. Much of the decision will hinge on who is available to replace him, which is why the Herm Edwards situation deserves a close eye. Edwards would instantly improve the Panthers defense, and if the move is made soon enough, may convince Julius Peppers his best seasons in Carolina are ahead of him. That is something the front office never did quite understand about Julius Peppers. Peppers is not a leader. Peppers does not make his fellow players any better than they already are. Peppers is an introverted guy that requires a strong presence to demand the best from him (see Buckner and Rucker). Edwards is the exact type of father figure that could get the most out of Peppers.
Hope currently resides Jon Beason and Deangelo Williams. These two young players are the future of this team, and both posess all of the characteristics to become all pro players and individuals. They both are leaders on the field and can drive those around them to elevate their level of play as well. These two players more than any other give Panthers fans a reason to be extremely excited about not only 2009, but the next several seasons. These two players can have franchises built around them.
Hang on to your butts, Panthers fans. Its going to be a dramatic offseason.
Hope and Change in 09
