Raleigh PF

If I'm an opposing offense understanding the Panthers do not play matchups on defense, I'm going to ensure the most favorable coverages. The Panther's weaknesses now are at Slot CB and Safety (and maybe OLB). If I have a good TE, I'm matching him up against the Safety whenever possible. #1 receiver goes in motion to pick off the slot CB. No team has perfect pieces everywhere. It's how the Panthers cover these weaknesses (and how good the pass rush is) that will determine the quality of the defense.

Smart move by Brunson. Harden hasn't been interested in playing defense since...well...ever. His offense used to offer more positive value than his defense detracted from it, but I don't think that's the case any more, especially when playoff time rolls around.

The Hornets have six first round picks over the next three years. I'd have a hard time believing they couldn't put together a rather nice package without sacrificing the core 3 of Lamelo, Kon and Brandon. Honestly, as young as the team is, they really don't need or want to have that many selections in that time frame. Imagine swapping out Miles (and bench players+draft picks) for Giannis OR some other blue chip veteran in the starting lineup. Now, the downside obviously is Giannis' age and health. It doesn't have to be Giannis specifically, but this team desperately needs a blue chip veteran to go with all the young talent.

It looks like the Bucks and Giannis are headed for a divorce. He says he's ready to play and the Bucks say that he has told them he isn't. It really doesn't matter except that it likely means the end for Giannis in Milwaukee. He's 31 years old, but still an elite producer. So, as GM, would you go after him this offseason? Remember, the Hornets have two 1st round picks this year and potentially THREE first round picks next year. What would a trade look like?

I'm sure it's just a technicality, but we haven't re-signed our punter yet.

Can Bryce only throw timing routes to the sidelines? I haven't seen one decent pass in rhythm over the middle. Straight garbage.

We aren't asking the right questions. Bryce is a decent QB. The Panthers are finding out that having the correct pieces around him is required for him to be successful. That means a good running game, competent receivers and a sturdy offensive line. Bryce can be a positive contributor in those conditions. A couple of further improvements and this could be a playoff team. Bryce could be good enough to help the Panthers get there. But he's not enough to get the Panthers to the Super Bowl let alone win it. So, the missing option in the poll is "He's good enough to help get the Panthers to the playoffs, but not the Super Bowl."

PFF stream on YouTube and watching the CBS sports tracker online. The TV isn't on once I figured out ESPN was delaying picks to get their commercials and talking points in.

Will do, but ESPN is falling behind the times a bit and this coming from an over 50's guy.

Not a member of Twitter. Watching the PFF stream.

Sanders drafted by the Bills... ...TJ that is.

Wow New Orleans. Geez.

I'd be willing to package the 2nd round pick with something else (2nd round next year?) and see if the Bengals are willing to trade Hendrickson. Yeah, he's going to cost, but it would fill the DE role nicely.

I heard it was possible. Comparisons to Jeremy Chinn - a tweener without a defined position. Size matters, apparently.

If you're a Panthers fan, those ears lost their virginity years ago...

Will "T-Rex" Campbell.

Jags trading up to the #2 spot.

Especially if she is expressing girth issues.

In other words...if a team is hot for Walker and he's available at 8, they'd better come strong with a trade offer.

LB - Chris Paul Jr WR - Tez Johnson TE - Harold Fannin S - Xavier Watts ED - Nic Scourton DL - TJ Sanders CB - Cobee Bryant

I give Davis about 10 games with the Mavs before suffering a season-ending injury.

Wouldn't that be fun to see Deion gameplanning against the Giants and his son. Oooof.

Let's be realistic - the Panthers are not going to sign All Pros to fit all of their needs. There are too many to fill and not enough cap space. No team has All Pros littered throughout the team - cheap role players are a staple of even the most successful franchises. If they are willing to return on reasonable contracts, I'd bring back: Andy Dalton Tommy Tremble Feleipe Franks David Moore Mike Jackson Caleb Farley Xavier Woods Jordan Fuller Sam Franklin Johnny Hekker JJ Jansen I'd offer a team-friendly deal to Shaq Thompson. It's not like the Panthers have a glut of LBers and they are lacking veteran leaders. Say what you will about Shaq (I'm not a big fan), but he does offer solid play and a vet presence. I'd offer the same to Brady Christensen, but expect he'll go elsewhere. Cade Mays can be the de facto center, but I'd try to find another in the draft. The rest of the draft should be focused on the DLine, Edge and LB. I wouldn't bat an eye if the entire draft was focused on the defense. Some of the guys I'd try to sign would not be guaranteed starting jobs (looking at you Woods/Fuller). Hopefully the draft can push those positions. The key here is not to go wild with high-priced free agent signings. 2025 will not be the year the Panthers compete for a Superb Owl, but should set the table nicely to be a competitor in 2026.

It's hard to "fix" guys without a good veteran presence around and the Panthers haven't had that since the old guard left (Keuchly, Olsen, Cam, etc.).

"Former Steelers Receiver" is producing the same kind of vibes as "Florida Man". I don't even want to hear about George Pickens and how he's a great target for the Panthers.