2008 Carolina Panthers Preview

      After one of the most disappointing seasons in the National Football League last year, in an effort to shake things up, the Carolina Panthers have made some big changes in the offseason. This used to be a team that would slowly build their squad without taking many big risks. However, Carolina GM, Marty Hurney has seen enough and has put together a "put up or shut up" squad for John Fox.

      The Panthers went out and got back veteran wide receiver, Mushin Muhammed from the bears and also acquired DJ Hackett from the Seahawks. Carolina's bold moves in the draft include, selecting tailback Jonathan Stewart out of Oregon with their first pick. Immediately after selecting Stewart, they traded away future picks in order to pick up offensive tackle Jeff Otah out of Pittsburgh.

      Injuries also plagued this Carolina squad last season. A week three injury to Jake Delhomme was just the beginning of a downward spiral for the Panthers in 2007. Delhomme's injury was also a direct result of "Mr Highlight Reel", Steve Smith's worst season in years. The usually stellar Carolina defense was also banged up last year, leaving Julius Pepper all by his lonesome. With all these new additions and the offseason to get healthy, we could be looking at one scary group in 2008. But, then again, that's what we said last year.

      The Saints look to be Carolina's only major competition for the NFC South crown in 2008. After five preseason's of hype since the Panthers faced New England in the 2004 Superbowl, it's now or never for John Fox. Another reason the Panthers can't afford any injuries this year is that the back end of their schedule is the most difficult part, ending the season against three teams from the 2007 playoffs; a stretch that includes facing Green Bay at Lambeau and the defending Superbowl champion Giants in New York..

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