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One of the Carolina Panthers players I am asked about more frequently is second year defensive end Kony Ealy. Ealy has the potential to be a great asset in Carolina as he can play both defensive end and defensive tackle. Players that can fill in at multiple positions are highly coveted in the NFL because they offer the coaching staffs much greater flexibility in developing a roster. Last season, Ealy struggled early in camp and during the first part of the season. As the Sundays came and went, Ealy did show great improvement. Towards the end of the year, he was an important cog in the Panthers defensive machine. So, how has Kony looked this season? Well, I can tell you that it has been another slow start for Kony. Whispers of his sub par play are heard frequently along the sidelines and among the media types. That may have all started to change on the 5th training camp practice, when Ealy once again started showing flashes. Pictured below is a nice swim move Ealy has developed as a defensive tackle. Ealy blew past guard Ricky Henry on the way to the quarterback. The result was a solid run stop. Later in practice, against Cam Newton and the Panthers first string defense, Ealy was inserted as a defensive end. He was able to elude offensive tackle Michael Oher. Of course, Ealy let up as he approached Cam Newton, as contact with the QB is not allowed in camp. As you can see below, the result would have surely been a QB sack if Ealy had kept going full speed. If Ealy can continue to improve throughout camp and preseason it will help the defense tremendously. It would help ease concerns with the defensive tackle injuries. A stout Ealy would also improve the quality rotation at defensive end, allowing Charles Johsnon and Mario Addison to stay more rested and effective. I will keep you updated on his progress throughout training camp. View full article