News: Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson had knee surgery recently and may miss the rest of the team's voluntary workouts and minicamps, The Sports Xchange reports. The team announced that the surgery was necessary to relieve swelling in his right knee. This came after the team's draft haul, which included Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly, Oklahoma defensive end Frank Alexander, Coastal Carolina cornerback Josh Norman and Cal safety D.J. Campbell.
Analysis: Johnson needs to be healthy for the Panthers defensive unit to be at its best, but this is a team that needs serious help up front against the run. Pairing Kuechly with a returning Jon Beason should help, but big guys up front who can freeze opposing linemen and keep running backs bottled up would go a long way. The Panthers DST isn't worth drafting this summer.
News: The Panthers DST allowed 45 points, 409 passing yards and 208 rushing yards to the Saints in Week 17. They had one interception of QB Drew Brees and didn't sack him once.
Analysis: Using the Panthers DST in Week 17 was a death sentence for Fantasy owners, as was the case for much of the season. Chances are they'll improve their defense during the offseason and could be considered as a one-week replacement during 2012.
News: The Panthers defense did not allow the Buccaneers to gain much on the ground in Week 16. Carolina held them to just 59 yards rushing and 317 total yards in the 48-16 win. Tampa Bay also lost three fumbles and DB Jonathan Nelson picked off QB Josh Freeman on the first drive of the second half. The Panthers recorded three sacks in the victory.
Analysis: The Panthers had one of their better defensive performances of the year on Saturday and played nice and loose with a big lead. They have allowed fewer than 20 points in four of the last five games and appear to have some decent upside. While Carolina does not hold much value for the rest of 2011, they could be a sleeper next season. But heading into Week 17 against the Saints, continue to view the Panthers as a No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: The Panthers will be going up against a Buccaneers offense in Week 16 that has had a hard time moving the ball of late. Tampa Bay has scored fewer than 20 points in seven of the last eight contests, and is currently on an eight-game losing streak. Carolina ranks 18th in the league in pass defense and 25th against the run while the Buccaneers rank 18th and 27th in passing and rushing, respectively. The Panthers have recorded 28 sacks thus far with 12 interceptions and one DST score.
Analysis: The Panthers limited the Texans to 358 yards of total offense a week ago and should be able to use their running game on Saturday to control the game. Tampa Bay has really struggled under QB Josh Freeman recently and managed just 19 points and 285 yards of offense when they faced Carolina in Week 13. While the Panthers have not been the most reliable play in Fantasy thus far, view their DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option for Week 16, considering the matchup.
News: The Panthers DST pulled a victory in Houston on Sunday of Week 15. The Panthers handed the Texans a nice little victory as they came away with the 28-13 win. The Panthers DST held the Texans to 358 yards in the win as Carolina was out-gained in the game. Still, the Panthers DST forced three Houston turnovers on one fumble and two interceptions. The Panthers DST finished with two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has not been a terrible unit down the stretch. That said, it hasn't been particularly good, either. The Panthers DST has a couple turnovers and sacks per game, but has not been consistently good. Heading into Week 16 against Tampa Bay, however, the Buccaneers tend to allow plenty of Fantasy points to opposing DST units. Fantasy owners in a bind can go with the Panthers DST for Week 16. However, they are mostly just a No. 2 unit.
News: The Panthers know if they want to get back on the winning track Week 15 at Houston, they'll need to do something nobody has managed to accomplish: beat rookie QB T.J. Yates. Yates, who led the Texans to wins against Atlanta and Cincinnati in his first two starts, securing the franchise's first ever playoff berth, will be hard to stop in the mind of Panthers coach Ron Rivera, whose team gave up four touchdown passes last week to Falcons QB Matt Ryan. "Each week, [Yates is] getting better and better," said Rivera. "I don't want to say they want him to manage the game. They want him to make plays. They're trying to put him in a position to make plays." The Panthers actually rank 19th against the pass (236.5 yards per game) compared to 23rd against the run (128.9), but they've gotten burned more against the pass lately, giving up an average of 277.5 yards over their last four games.
Analysis: The Panthers may act like Yates is their biggest concern on Sunday, but chances are their success will depend more on how they handle the running back combination of Arian Foster and Ben Tate. The Panthers are allowing 27.3 points per game, fourth-most in the NFL, and have obviously struggled against both the run and the pass, so you shouldn't have high hopes for their DST this week no matter what the gameplan is. It remains just a last resort in Fantasy.
News: The Panthers defense, which has had its struggles for much of 2011, stepped up in the first half against the visiting Falcons in Week 14, limiting them to seven points on 117 yards. But it was all downhill from there. The Falcons blew up in the second half, coming back from down 23-7 to finish with 31 points on 394 yards. The Panthers recorded two sacks in the contest but didn't force any turnovers.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has been slightly better of late, but it still gives up tons of yardage and usually a decent number of points as well. Because it's rarely good for more than two or three sacks per game, it really doesn't have much to offer Fantasy owners. Its matchup at Houston in Week 15 isn't an especially favorable one, so you should leave it on waivers in most Fantasy formats.
News: Slowing down Falcons RB Michael Turner has never been an easy task for the Panthers. But it might be even more difficult to put the clamps on him Week 14 against Atlanta with both starting defensive tackles moving to injured reserve. The Panthers were hurting from injuries on defense even before losing rookie tackles Sione Fua and Terrell McClain for the year on Tuesday. They'll be counting on second-year player Andre Neblett and undrafted rookie Frank Kearse to plug the middle and keep Turner from running wild -- again. Turner has destroyed the Panthers since joining the Falcons as unrestricted free agent in 2008, running for 651 yards and scored 11 touchdowns in his last six games. His best game of the season came against them in Week 6, when he rushed for 139 yards and two touchdowns on 27 carries.
Analysis: The good news is the Panthers showed some improvement against the running game last week, giving up just 19 yards on 11 carries to Buccaneers RB LeGarrette Blount. The bad news is they still rank 27th against the run, allowing 132.5 yards per game. Turner is dealing with a bit of a groin injury and hasn't been at his best lately, rushing for a combined 104 yards on 33 carries over his last two games, but given this matchup, you still have to believe he's going to run wild in Week 14. And even if he doesn't, the Falcons have a balanced enough offense that the Panthers defense should still be in for a rocky afternoon. Consider the DST nothing more than a last resort in Fantasy.
News: The Panthers DST came up with a big victory on Sunday of Week 13 at Tampa Bay. The Panthers DST held the Buccaneers to 285 yards of total offense with Josh Johnson instead of Josh Freeman under center. The Panthers DST forced the game's only turnover in the 38-19 victory. The Panthers DST came up with two sacks of Johnson in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers DST had actually performed at a high level in back-to-back games in Detroit and Indianapolis the last two weeks. Despite winning on Sunday of Week 13, the Panthers DST performed at a much lower level with just the one turnover forced and two sacks. It wasn't a horrendous day, but is probably more par for the course for the Panthers DST. Heading into Week 14 against Atlanta, the Panthers DST is just a No. 2 Fantasy unit, at best.
News: The Panthers DST has recorded double digits in Fantasy points in back-to-back games for the first time all season. The Panthers DST has forced six turnovers and recorded four sacks the last two games and they have recorded one DTD over that span. The Panthers DST heads into Week 13 at Tampa Bay on a roll.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has been a low-end unit for much of the season and we really don't see that changing against Tampa Bay Week 13. The Buccaneers don't really give up too much Fantasy points to opposing DST units. The Panthers DST is a No. 2 unit at best for the Week 13 game.
News: Carolina entered its Week 12 matchup against Indianapolis with the NFL's 30th-ranked run defense at 140.7 yards per game, one slot better than the Colts (145.6). But aside from a 17-yard touchdown run by RB Donald Brown in the second quarter, the Panthers shut down Indianapolis on the ground and claimed a 27-19 victory on Sunday. Carolina allowed only 105 rushing yards while picking off Colts QB Curtis Painter twice.
Analysis: After yielding 79 points combined in the past two games, the injury-riddled Panthers were able to limit one of the NFL's lowest-scoring teams and halted a three-game losing skid. The 19 points marked only the second time Carolina has held an opponent to less than 20 points (Jacksonville in Week 3). The Panthers' recent struggles reaching the quarterback persisted as they tallied just two sacks. Fantasy owners should consider Carolina a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 13 at Tampa Bay -- the third consecutive road game for the Panthers.
News: The Panthers enter Week 12 as the fourth-worst DST in the league in terms of standard league scoring, but they are rewarded with a highly favorable against the punchless Colts. Averaging just 13.1 points per game, only the Rams and Jaguars score less than the Colts, and they rank 31st in total offensive yardage. However, the Colts have been adept at avoiding interceptions, throwing only eight so far this season. The Panthers have made just seven picks, tying them for the eighth-fewest in the league.
Analysis: While this has the potential to be a season-best outing for the Panthers DST, it's not clear that there is any matchup that is favorable enough to give owners the confidence to start them. Even if the Panthers' manage to limit the Colts' scoring and yardage, owners can't count on them to force turnovers. It's still best to avoid the Panthers DST if at all possible.
News: The Panthers DST isn't considered a strong unit, but perhaps they will be very soon. Playing at Detroit in Week 11, interceptions by James Anderson and Charles Godfrey, a forced fumble by Jordan Senn, two sacks by Thomas Keiser and a 101-yard kickoff-return for a touchdown by Kealoha Pilares helped the unit to one of their most productive units in Fantasy. Those numbers overshadowed a paltry defensive effort otherwise as the Lions rolled up 169 rush yards, 335 passing yards and 49 points on the Panthers.
Analysis: Carolina's DST isn't worth using unless they get a dream matchup -- and they might have it in Week 12 at the Colts. Indianapolis' offense has been anemic all year and one could reason that they'll continue with their stagnant effort against the Panthers. Then again, no teams are on bye in Week 12, so unless you're looking for help off waivers, chances are you won't have a need to trust the Panthers DST.
News: Following their 14-loss campaign a year ago, the Carolina Panthers have shown promising strides during the 2011 season -- except on defense. Carolina has permitted 137.6 rushing yards per game to opponents this year (fifth most in the NFL) and 223.9 passing yards a week. That passing mark could increase in Week 11 as the Panthers face Detroit and star WR Calvin Johnson, who are ninth in the league with an average of 266.4 passing yards a game. Two receivers have notched 100-yard outings against Carolina this year.
Analysis: The Panthers have struggled to collect takeaways this season and are 13th in the NFC with a turnover difference on minus-four. They have managed only one outing this year with more than one turnover -- Week 7 against Washington (three) -- as the defense has allowed a whopping 26.3 points per game. Carolina does have eight sacks over its past three games, but could have trouble reaching Lions QB Matthew Stafford on Sunday. Consider the Panthers a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 11.
News: Titans RB Chris Johnson became the latest running back to surpass the 100-yard rushing mark against the Panthers during a 30-3 win for Tennessee in Week 10. Carolina came into the game allowing 133.2 rushing yards per game and Johnson nearly got to that mark himself with a season-high 130 rushing yards. Tennessee totaled 383 yards, while Carolina forced one turnover and one sack.
Analysis: Injuries have depleted the Panthers linebacking corps and it shows especially with their ability to stop the run. The Panthers haven't figured out how to stop the opposition on defense and that doesn't bode well for Fantasy purposes. Don't plan on starting the Panthers DST in Week 11 at Detroit.
News: The Panthers this season have created just nine turnovers, second fewest in the NFC. Safety Sherrod Martin said Wednesday the coaching staff is emphasizing turnovers in practice. “It’s a matter of flying to the ball,” said Martin, who has two of the team’s four interceptions. The Panthers will get to try their new aggressive scheme in Week 10 vs. Tennessee.
Analysis: Perhaps creating turnovers will allow the Panthers to get better on defense. They come into Week 10 allowing 358.8 yards per game and 25.9 points per game. Carolina is mostly getting beat on the ground and a lot of that has to do with the injuries they have sustained at linebacker. Although the Titans have struggled to run the ball in 2011, they still have Chris Johnson and Javon Ringer in the backfield, and those two can get hot at a moment's notice. The Panthers DST remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 10.
News: The Panthers DST had their work cut out for them, facing the Vikings' strong ground attack in Week 8, and they wound up having only limited success. They held Vikings RB Adrian Peterson to just 14 rushing yards in the first half, but he finished with 86 rushing yards to go with 76 receiving yards and a pair of touchdowns. Overall, the Panthers yielded 24 points and 361 total net yards of offense, though they did sack QB Christian Ponder four times and recover a Percy Harvin fumble.
Analysis: The Panthers' rushing defense was surprisingly effective early on, but it proved to be porous during stretches of the second half. It has been a weakness for the Panthers DST all season long, and they should be avoided in nearly all formats. They have a bye in Week 9, so they should be stashed or left on waivers in all formats for now.
News: The Panthers DST is coming off one of its strongest efforts of the season, as they forced three turnovers and recorded three sacks against the Redskins in Week 7. Even with that performance, the Panthers DST enters Week 8 ranked 28th in Fantasy points in standard formats. They may have a difficult time improving on that lowly ranking, as they will face the Vikings. Though Minnesota ranks just 21st in total offensive yardage per game, they rank third in per-game rushing yardage. Defending the run is a weakness for Carolina, as only three teams have allowed more rushing yards per game this season.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is rarely an advisable start, and now that they will be opposing a team that can exploit their main weakness, there is little incentive to use them. If at all possible, avoid the Panthers DST in Week 8.
News: The Panthers DST put together a very solid effort in Week 7 at home in a win over the Redskins. The Panthers DST held Washington and new QB John Beck to 353 yards of offense, but most of that came late as the Redskins were frantically trying to get back into the game. The Panthers DST forced three Washington turnovers as the Redskins lost two fumbles and Beck threw an interception to Chris Gamble, who tied the franchise record with his 25th career interception. The Panthers DST managed three sacks of Beck in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers DST was solid on Sunday where they have not been just about all season long. The DST finished with a season-high three sacks and forced a season-high three turnovers. The Panthers DST has not been a great unit this season as they head into Week 8 against Minnesota. Christian Ponder looks to be an upgrade over Donovan McNabb, so the Panthers DST could struggle again in Week 8. Consider them a borderline start after Week 7's solid effort.
News:The Sports Xchange notes the Panthers were on the practice field Wednesday when they received news that quarterback John Beck would be starting Sunday for the Washington Redskins. Beck replaces Rex Grossman, who threw four interceptions in a 20-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles this past Sunday. He has started four games during his career, all of those coming in 2007 with the Miami Dolphins. "He's a little more mobile than Grossman, but they are similar quarterbacks in that they stay within the system," Panthers linebacker James Anderson said. "The quarterbacks do what they ask them to do." Coach Ron Rivera said he doesn't expect the Panthers will change their preparation for Beck. "Truthfully, you don't game-plan for an individual unless he's special," Rivera said. "He's a young quarterback that is getting his opportunity. To me, you game-plan for what they do. (Redskins offensive coordinator) Kyle Shanahan is going to do what he does on the offensive side. It doesn't matter which quarterback is playing."
Analysis: Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn said he's glad the Redskins made the move now so he can prepare for Beck and watch some film of him. Beck played in a reserve role Sunday against the Eagles and ran for a touchdown. "I'm just glad it's Wednesday so I have time to prepare myself and look at the film on him," Munnerlyn said. But QBs haven't been the Panthers problem in 2011. It has been the RBs. Carolina got torched for 139 yards and two touchdowns in Week 6 by Atlanta's Michael Turner and rank second to last in rushing defense (140.3 ypg). The Redskins have a trio of backs that could torch the Panthers, so they can't spend too much time focusing on stopping Beck, but you probably can bet they will bring the house Sunday. The Panthers DST remains at best a No. 2 option for Week 7.
News:The Sports Xchange notes it hasn't been easy for a defensive-minded guy like Panthers coach Ron Rivera to watch. His run defense got torched for 139 yards and two touchdowns in Week 6 by Atlanta's Michael Turner leaving Rivera thinking he needs to re-evaluate what's happening on that side of the ball heading into Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins. "We have to look at the defense that we're playing and the players that are doing it and how we can better maximize our personnel with the calls," Rivera said. "We have a lot to look at and a lot to learn and grow with. And as I get a chance to evaluate that and look at that and sit down (defensive coordinator) with Sean (McDermott) and the rest of the defensive coaches, we'll make decisions in terms of who plays and what we play."
Analysis: Personnel wise, there's not a lot Rivera can do at this point in the season. Due to season-ending injuries to linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis and defensive tackle Ron Edwards, the Panthers are already thin on defense, forced to play backups with limited experience. There isn't much out there in free agency and the Panthers don't plan to make any trades, Rivera said last week. So the only real answer for the Panthers is to get better. And that means the team might have to continue to take its punches as they continue to grow as a young team with the rewards of gaining playing experience coming down the road, perhaps next season. The Panthers still must face some pretty good running backs the rest of the way -- Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, Tennessee's Chris Johnson, Houston's Arian Foster and Turner again over the next 10 weeks. In Week 7 they get the Redskins, who are having some issues at QB. However, the Panthers DST is at best a desperation Fantasy option.
News: The Panthers, which came into the game ranked 15th against the pass and 27th against the run, continued to struggle on the defensive side of the football Week 6 at Atlanta, giving up a season-high 31 points. The Falcons had only 325 yards of offense, though, taking advantage of some untimely pass interference calls and three interceptions by QB Cam Newton. The Panthers defense probably doesn't deserve much credit, though, considering it didn't force any turnovers of its own and only recorded one sack.
Analysis: The Panthers DST typically gives up more yardage than it did in Week 6, but the lack of big plays is becoming a trend. Really, the Panthers defense hasn't given Fantasy owners any reason for optimism. It typically forces the offense into shootouts and doesn't have any notable playmakers. It's one of the worst units in Fantasy, so you can leave it on waivers for Week 7 against the Redskins.
News: With Omar Gaither (knee) expected to join Jon Beason and Thomas Davis on the sidelines, the Panthers already depleted linebacker corps will be down to almost nothing Week 6 at Atlanta. That's especially bad news with old nemesis Michael Turner looking to get back on track after rushing for less than 100 yards in each of his last three games. The Falcons running back has throttled the Panthers over the years, averaging 102.4 yards and rushing for nine touchdowns in his last five games against them. The Panthers have been as bad as ever against the run this season, allowing 135.2 yards per game, sixth-most in the NFL.
Analysis: The Panthers DST hasn't done much of anything right this season, and another injury certainly isn't going to help its cause. The one reason for hope this week is that the Panthers are facing an offensive line that has had trouble protecting QB Matt Ryan, but if the Falcons choose to run the ball for much of the game anyway, which figures to be the case, you shouldn't necessarily bank on a bunch of sacks for the Panthers DST. It remains at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy unit for this matchup.
News:Drew Brees found Pierre Thomas wide open on the right side for a 6-yard touchdown with 50 seconds left, helping the New Orleans Saints rally past the Carolina Panthers 30-27 in Week 5. The Saints rolled up 444 yards against the Panthers, including 101 rushing yards. The Panthers defense managed two sacks and one interception.
Analysis: You kind of figured the Panthers weren't going to have a stellar defensive performance in Week 5 going up against one of the best offenses in the NFL. The Panthers have now allowed 28 or more points in four of five games this season as they try to find their identity under first-year coordinator Sean McDermott. Consider the Panthers DST as less than desirable Fantasy option heading into Week 6 against the Falcons.
News: The Panthers will square off in Week 5 against NFC South foe New Orleans, and that also means facing one of the best offenses in the NFL. New Orleans is second in total (454.0 ypg) and fifth in scoring offense (31.8 ppg) after four games. It's going to be a challenge for the Carolina defense, which is allowing 348 yards and 25.5 points per game.
Analysis: The Carolina defense is still trying to gel after losing LBs Jon Beason and Thomas Davis for the year due to injuries. The good news is that it appears cornerback Chris Gamble will play in Week 5 after sitting out Week 4 with a head injury, but the Saints are a tough offense to slow down, so the Panthers DST remains a low-end Fantasy option for Week 5.
News: The Panthers DST actually did a good job at limiting the Bears' offensive scoring on Sunday of Week 4. Unfortunately, the Bears DST scored twice on Carolina and Chicago held on for a 34-29 win. The Panthers DST limited Chicago to just 317 total yards of offense. The DST forced Jay Cutler into throwing one interception as the only turnover in the game forced by the Panthers. Carolina's Charles Johnson picked up the only sack for the Panthers in the contest.
Analysis: The Panthers only sacked Cutler once on Sunday and no team had given up more sacks than the Bears entering the week. The Panthers DST have been an underwhelming unit all season and that doesn't figure to change heading into Week 5 against the high-powered Saints. We do not recommend starting the Panthers DST Week 5.
News: The Panthers DST is coming off its best week of the season in Week 3 against the Jaguars. The DST racked up two sacks, two turnovers forced and limited Jacksonville to just 10 points and 257 yards. Facing the Bears in Chicago Week 4, the Bears are allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units.
Analysis: When Jay Cutler is quarterbacking, there are always turnovers to be had. And, in fact, the Bears have surrendered 14 sacks, four turnovers and a defensive and special teams touchdown this season after three games. No team has given up more sacks, so the Panthers will be looking to get at Cutler early and often. Consider the Panthers DST a sleeper unit as a low-end No. 2 for Week 4.
News: The Panthers had a predictably strong defensive performance against the Jaguars and rookie QB Blaine Gabbert in Week 3. They allowed 10 points on 257 yards, getting an assist from the heavy rain that fell in the second quarter, making the field difficult to maneuver. The Panthers also recorded two sacks and one interception in the contest.
Analysis: The Panthers DST hasn't been especially productive this season, getting torched by the Cardinals and Panthers in Weeks 1 and 2. You can credit its success in Week 3 to the matchup and the field conditions. At Chicago in Week 4, the Panthers DST should be able to record a decent number of sacks, but otherwise, it could struggle. You should continue to treat it as a last resort in Fantasy.
News: The Panthers defense hasn't had much luck this season. Not only has it allowed an average of 29.0 points and 406.5 yards over its first two games, but it has lost linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis to season-ending injuries. Fortunately, the Panthers catch a break with the Jaguars coming to town. They'll be facing rookie QB Blaine Gabbert in his first NFL start. Gabbert is assuming the role sooner than expected after Luke McCown went 6 for 19 for 59 yards and four interceptions at the Jets in Week 2. As a team, the Jaguars rank 30th in scoring this year, averaging 9.5 points per game.
Analysis: So far, the extent of the Jaguars offense has been RB Maurice Jones-Drew, and that doesn't figure to change with the inexperienced Gabbert under center. Most of the Panthers' problems on defense have come against the pass. Against the run, they rank 19th in the league, allowing 111.5 yards per game. While the Panthers DST might not have the personnel to but up big numbers even with the favorable matchup, you have to figure it'll at least have a respectable performance after facing the high-scoring Packers and Cardinals the last two weeks. The Panthers DST still isn't a top-12 Fantasy option this week, but it does have some sleeper appeal in deeper leagues.
News: The Panthers DST sure looked good in limiting the Packers' offense early in the Week 2 game. Carolina led 10-0 after the first quarter and Randall Cobb's fumble on the first kickoff led directly to points for the Panthers. That said, in the end, the Packers turned it on and racked up 419 yards of offense against the Panthers DST. The unit gave up 30 points in the 30-23 loss. Carolina only forced one turnover on a fumble lost -- the one by Cobb in the first quarter -- and only managed one sack of QB Aaron Rodgers.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has just three sacks and two turnovers forced after two weeks of the season against the Cardinals and Packers. The Packers secondary has yet to pick off a pass despite both opponents being teams that throw the ball early and often. At this point, the Panthers DST is not a recommended Fantasy unit heading into Week 3 against the Jaguars.
News: Panthers coach Ron Rivera confirmed that LB Jon Beason (ankle) will miss the remainder of the season. He has been diagnosed with a left Achilles' tear. The Panthers had a hard time slowing down the Cardinals in Week 1. The unit allowed 28 points on 394 yards of total offense, including 295 of that coming through the air.
Analysis: Beason's injury could be tough to overcome for the Panthers, who remain a very low-end play in Fantasy. With the Packers coming to town in Week 2, Fantasy owners are advised to leave the unit on the bench in Week 2 -- or on the waiver wire in most circumstances.
News: The Panthers DST had a hard time slowing down the Cardinals in Week 1. The unit allowed 28 points on 394 yards of total offense, including 295 of that coming through the air. Carolina was better against the run, surrendering just 99 yards on then ground while forcing a fumble in the red zone. The unit registered a pair of sacks and held Arizona to just 15 first downs in the 28-21 loss.
Analysis: The Panthers DST played better than expected on Sunday, but the unit was far from great. The biggest surprise was their ability to slow down the Cardinals' rushing attacks, as Carolina was terrible against the run last season. However, the unit appeared to suffer a huge blow as Jon Beason re-aggravated his ankle injury and may be out for season. That would hurt the Panthers' already limited Fantasy value moving forward. With the Packers coming to town in Week 2, Fantasy owners are best to leave the unit on the bench heading into next Sunday.
News: The Panthers DST looks to have a tough matchup in Week 1 against the Cardinals. Carolina's defense allowed 335.9 yards per game in 2010 while giving up 25.5 points per contest. Arizona averaged 269.3 yards and 18.1 points per game last season. The Cardinals also gave up an average of 14.9 Fantasy points to opposing DSTs per contest last season.
Analysis: Panthers were not very good on defense last season, especially against the run. They brought in defensive coordinator Sean McDermott to work with head coach Ron Rivera and will continue to run the 4-3. However, the Panthers' defense looks to have its hands full this week, with Larry Fitzgerald, Kevin Kolb and Beenie Wells lining up against them. Fantasy owners should leave Carolina's DST on the bench heading into Week 1.
News: The Panthers knew that their run defense stunk in 2010, so they brought in talent to help in 2011. Carolina spent two third-round picks on defensive tackles: USF's Terrell McClain and Stanford's Sione Fua. They also brought in West Virginia CB Brandon Hogan (Round 4) and UConn LB Lawrence Wilson (Round 6). They'll work with new defensive coordinator Sean McDermott and head coach Ron Rivera in the Panthers' 4-3 scheme.
Analysis: Actions may speak louder than words, but it remains to be seen if the additions of McClain and Fua will shore up the Panthers' run defense. At least one should start, and there's room for Wilson to compete for a role on defense as well. But with several other holes to fill combined with the infusion of youth and an offense that is sure to turn the ball over a fairly good amount, the Panthers DST cannot be trusted in Fantasy play.
News: New Panthers Ron Rivera says he'll be hands-on with the defense. Old friend Sean McDermott will help him. Less than a week after he was fired by the Philadelphia Eagles, McDermott was hired Wednesday to be Rivera's defensive coordinator in Carolina. The Eagles allowed 377 points this season, the most since 1974, leading to his dismissal Saturday, but McDermott and Rivera worked together before during a five-ear stint with the Eagles early in the 2000's. "I have worked with Sean and know he is an intensely focused and very smart coach," Rivera said. "He has a lot of versatility in his background that provides him with sound experience teaching defense. Sean is a highly regarded young coach and we think he will make a strong contribution to the Carolina Panthers."
Analysis: Rivera had previously said he would run the defense, so McDermott's role has less responsibility than it did in Philly. Rivera also noted that the Panthers will continue to run the 4-3 scheme, which is also what the Eagles used. Still, no one should consider this DST worthy for Fantasy use until they improve their pass rush and run defense, but that might happen sooner than later with Rivera on board. Look for them to select a defensive player with the top pick in this year's draft.
News: The Carolina Panthers have entrusted Ron Rivera with turning around their team, replacing John Fox. It's the first head coaching job for the 49-year-old Rivera, who ran the Chargers' defense since midway through the 2008 season. He also was defensive coordinator in Chicago from 2004-06, which includes their Super Bowl run. Despite running a 3-4 defense in San Diego, Rivera said the Panthers will continue to use a 4-3 based on their personnel. "It gives me comfort that he was a former player," said owner Jerry Richardson. "He brings an approach and resume that we believe lends itself to success for our football team and organization."
Analysis: This appears to be a step in the right direction for the Panthers, who need talent above anything else to rebuild the defense. No one should consider this DST worthy for Fantasy use until they improve their pass rush and run defense, but that might happen sooner than later with Rivera on board.
News: The Panthers could not play the role of spoiler in Week 17 against the Falcons. Atlanta came into the game needing a win to secure the top spot in the NFC playoffs and it had little trouble doing so. Atlanta scored on the opening drive and opened up a 31-3 lead heading into the fourth quarter of a 31-10 victory. Atlanta racked up 352 yards (99 rushing). Carolina managed only one sack and forced one turnover -- a fumble.
Analysis: A brutal season has finally come to an end for the Panthers. The defense did its best, but when the offense struggled all season to sustain drives, the defense got demoralized and eventually faltered in most games. Depending on who the Panthers bring in as coach next season will dictate how valuable the Panthers DST will be in Fantasy. As of now, we can't see them being a must-own Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: The Atlanta Falcons can clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs this weekend with a win. The Carolina Panthers will be looking to play the role of spoiler in Week 17. The Falcons will try to secure the top spot and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs Sunday when they host Carolina in likely the final game for Panthers coach John Fox. Working on a short week, Atlanta looks to bounce back after a rare poor performance by its offensive stars. The Falcons were held to a season-low 215 yards after Matt Ryan, Roddy White and Michael Turner all struggled in a Week 16 loss to the Saints. Turner will look to bounce back against an opponent he's dominated. Turner ran for 112 yards and a season-high three touchdowns in a 31-10 win over Carolina on Dec. 12, and he's averaged 111.3 yards while scoring eight TDs in his last four games against the Panthers.
Analysis: It's been a pretty brutal season for the Panthers, but the defense has tried to do its part to at least look competitive. Carolina is 16th in total defense (334.8 ypg), but since the offense hasn't been able to sustain long drives, the defense gets tired and eventually wears down. The Falcons have a lot on the line in Week 17, so we expect them to come out firing on all cylinders against Carolina. Try to avoid the Panthers DST in Fantasy Week 17.
News: The Panthers defense began the Week 16 game against the Steelers on a high-note, by holding their offense to three points after one quarter. They weren't as fortunate for the rest of the evening, as the Steelers offense racked up 408 yards, including 320 via QB Ben Roethlisberger. RB Rashard Mendenhall rushed for 65 yards and a score, while Roethlisberger accounted for two touchdowns (one rush). Pittsburgh ran the ball for most of the second half and finished the night with 27 points. Carolina did create two turnovers -- both fumbles -- and found a way to sack Roethlisberger three times.
Analysis: The Panthers defense played as good as they could have on Thursday night. The offense accounted for just 119 yards against Pittsburgh, so Carolina constantly defended a short field and looked out-matched at times. The Steelers passing game gashed the Panthers banged-up secondary seemingly at will. In Week 17, the Panthers will try to contain the Falcons, who put up 31 points against them just two weeks ago. We don't see that scenario changing heading into next week. Avoid the Panthers DST in Fantasy play.
News: Not only does the Panthers defense have a short turnaround heading into the Thursday night game, but they have to go into Pittsburgh in Week 16. The Steelers don't sport the NFL's most prolific offense, but they have a top-10 unit on the ground and Carolina lies in the bottom-10 at stopping the run. RB Rashard Mendenhall went for 100 yards and a score against a tough Jets run defense last week. In the passing game, the matchups are quite the opposite.
Analysis: Though the passing game favors Carolina, make no mistake about Pittsburgh's mentality. The Steelers are a run-first team playing for the post-season and the Panthers are heading into the rebuilding phase and playing in chilly Pennsylvania on a short week. We should not have to tell you to seek other options in Fantasy play.
News: The Panthers DST held Arizona to 12 points and 218 total yards in a Week 15 victory. Carolina added three sacks, an interception and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is certainly one of the worst units in Fantasy play, but they found themselves with a favorable matchup in Week 15 and made the most of it against rookie QB John Skelton. In Week 16, Carolina plays at Pittsburgh on Thursday night, and that is certainly a matchup to avoid in all formats unless the weather is very severe.
News: The Panthers DST has given up 30 or more points in five of its last six games, but they will face a Cardinals team that will be starting rookie QB John Skelton in Week 15. This DST unit has picked up seven Fantasy points or less in those last six contests.
Analysis: The Panthers have been one of the worst defensive teams all season, and only a very brave Fantasy owners would dare risk using them in Week 15 against an Arizona team that isn't very good either, but does feature solid weapons in Larry Fitzgerald and Tim Hightower. Start them at your peril.
News: The Panthers had another unimpressive defensive performance against the Falcons in Week 14, allowing 31 points on 327 yards. They did equal a season high with three sacks, though, reaching that number for the third time in four games. They also recorded an interception.
Analysis: The Panthers' overall numbers don't look that great, but they did allow just 125 yards in the second half. The Falcons had pretty much gone into autopilot mode by then, though, so you shouldn't necessarily view it as a sign of things to come. The Panthers do have a sneaky matchup against the Cardinals in Week 15, but considering how shaky their DST has been all season, you probably wouldn't want to take a chance on it in Fantasy.
News: The Panthers defense, which has given up 24 points or more in five straight games, could have another rough afternoon against the Falcons in Week 14. The Panthers rank 27th against the run, allowing 133.1 yards per game, and are facing a running back in Michael Turner who has four 100-yard games in his last six. Not only that, but the Panthers' one advantage, their eight-ranked pass defense, might not help them much against ultra-efficient QB Matt Ryan.
Analysis: The Falcons allow only 6.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing defenses, tied for fifth-best in the league, so if you were ever going to pick a time for the Panthers DST to step up and make a worthwhile Fantasy impact, this wouldn't be it. The Falcons are a tough matchup for any defense, but especially one of the worst in the league. Leave the Panthers DST on waivers.
News: The Carolina defense allowed another team to reach 30 points en route to its sixth consecutive loss in a 31-14 defeat at Seattle in Week 14. The Panthers, who dropped to 1-11 this season, have now surrendered 30-plus points to four of their last five opponents. Carolina once again struggled containing opponents' running backs -- it entered the game having allowed an average of 22.3 Fantasy points to the position -- and was burned by Marshawn Lynch's three touchdowns on the ground. It was the second consecutive week the Panthers allowed three touchdowns to a single running back (Cleveland's Peyton Hillis in Week 12).
Analysis: The Panthers defense did turn in a stellar game -- for a half. Carolina allowed just three points in the first half but then crumbled in the second half and were blitzed for 31 unanswered points, including 21 in the third quarter alone. After holding the Seahawks to 35 rushing yards in the first two quarters, the Panthers surrendered 126 yards in the second half to complete the stunning defeat. Carolina has now allowed the third-most points in the NFC (307) and is a risky Fantasy play against Atlanta in Week 14. Consider other Fantasy DST options against the high-octane Falcons next Sunday.
News: During its current five-game losing skid, Carolina has struggled immensely to contain offenses and has allowed three opponents to reach 30 points. The Panthers, who also lost five in a row to open the season, will attempt to slow a sluggish Seattle offense in Week 13 on Sunday. The Seahawks are averaging 21.5 points per game during a two-game losing streak but Carolina has surrendered a mark of 29.2 points per game en route to being outscored by a combined 82 points in its last five games. Seattle will likely attempt to kick-start its rushing game against a Panthers defense that is allowing an average of 130.5 yards on the ground this season and has surrendered a rushing touchdown in six consecutive games.
Analysis: A pair of five-game losing streaks will certainly derail a season quickly but the Panthers seem determined to play spoiler against the Seahawks, who are tied for first place in the weak NFC West. It won't be an easy task for Carolina, which has allowed four of its five road opponents this season to record more than 350 total yards. The Panthers defense just doesn't score enough Fantasy points -- averaging 6.2 points per week -- to merit a play. Consider other Fantasy options before settling on this DST that has just 11 sacks in its last six games.
News: Despite yielding 379 yards of offense, the Panthers DST had a decent day in a 24-23 loss to the Browns in Week 12. The defense intercepted QB Jake Delhomme on consecutive pass attempts in the third quarter, including a pick that DB Captain Munnerlyn ran back 37 yards for a touchdown. They also recovered a fumble by TE Evan Moore and sacked Delhomme twice.
Analysis: Thanks to Munnerlyn's pick-six, it was a productive afternoon in Fantasy for the Panthers DST, but the fact that they couldn't keep a mediocre Browns offense in check tells you all you need to know about this unit. Owners should avoid the Panthers DST in nearly all formats.
News: The Panthers DST ranks fifth from the bottom in Fantasy points going into Week 12, and matters don't look to get better with their upcoming game at Cleveland. The Browns are in the bottom 10 of the league in both point scored and yardage gained, but they have improved in recent weeks. After breaking the 20-point barrier only once in their first six games, Cleveland has scored 20 or more points in each of their last four contests. They have also run up more than 280 yards of offense in each of the least three weeks.
Analysis: What looks like a favorable matchup at first glance probably won't be so easy, and the Panthers DST needs a very favorable matchup to earn any consideration. They can be ignored in virtually all formats for Fantasy Week 12.
News: The Panthers' defense allowed the Ravens to pile up 378 yards in offense in a 37-13 loss in Week 11. Carolina's weak offense was a part of the problem, as they spent just over 25 minutes of the game on the field, leaving the defense to tire. The defensive unit did force three fumbles, only one of which was recovered by the Ravens, and they sacked Baltimore QB Joe Flacco three times. On special teams, Captain Munnerlyn took a kickoff return 64 yards, but he was stopped at the Ravens 25-yard line, and the Panthers ultimately settled for a field goal on the ensuing drive.
Analysis: The Panthers DST provided a few highlights, but overall, it was another frustrating afternoon for the few owners who have them rostered. They didn't provide Fantasy owners with any reason to consider them in coming weeks, so in most formats, owners should continue to ignore the Panthers DST.
News: Going into Week 11, the Panthers DST ranks fifth from the bottom in Fantasy points, and matters could get worse. On Sunday, they will face the Ravens, a run-oriented team, which is not a good matchup for the 27th-ranked Carolina rushing defense. The Panthers have allowed 829 total yards over the last two weeks, and 351 of those yards came from rushing.
Analysis: The Ravens run the ball far more often than either the Buccaneers or the Saints -- the Panthers' last two opponents -- so it figures to be a very long day for the Carolina defense. Avoid the Panthers DST if at all possible in Week 11.
News: The Panthers defense, which allowed less than 300 yards in three straight games before allowing 408 in a 28-point effort by the Saints last week, was even worse Week 10 at Tampa Bay, allowing 31 points on 421 yards to the Buccaneers. The Panthers recorded one sack and recovered two fumbles.
Analysis: The Panthers hadn't allowed 400 yards in a game until last week. Now, they've done it two weeks in a row. They've given up more than their share of points, though -- and without many sacks to go along with them. The Panthers DST remains just a last resort in Fantasy, especially with a tough matchup Week 11 against the Ravens.
News: The Panthers defense, which allowed less than 300 yards in three straight games before allowing 408 in a 28-point effort by the Saints last week, will try to get back on track Week 10 at Tampa Bay. The Panthers rank fifth in pass defense, allowing 190.2 yards per game, so they may be able to keep young QB Josh Freeman in check, but they could struggle against battering ram LeGarrette Blount. The Panthers rank 25th against the run, allowing 124.8 yards per game.
Analysis: This should be an interesting matchup for the Panthers DST. Freeman has gotten hot, averaging 235.6 passing yards in his last five games compared to 181.3 in his first three. The Panthers rank sixth in the NFL with 11 interceptions but may not be able to put enough pressure on Freeman to create turnovers. Even when the Panthers DST has been good this year, it hasn't made the kind of big plays that would move it up the Fantasy rankings. With a so-so matchup like this one, you have no reason to bother with it in Fantasy.
News: After holding the Saints to 16 points in Week 4, the Panthers defense couldn't match the output in Week 9. New Orleans steamrolled the Panthers to a tune of 34-3 in Week 9. The Saints had a touchdown in each quarter, including a defensive score in the third. The Saints offense managed 27 first downs on 408 yards (243 passing). The Panthers got just one sack and forced one turnover -- an interception of Drew Brees on the first drive.
Analysis: We blame the inefficient Panthers offense for the loss in Week 9. They struggled to sustain long drives and gave the Saints solid field position most of the day. The defense was just deflated. We expect much of the same the rest of the way. The Panthers defense isn't half-bad, but when you are tired, it doesn't matter how good you are. The Panthers DST is not a recommended Fantasy option in Week 10, when Carolina plays Tampa Bay.
News: The Panthers defense held the high-powered Saints offense to just 16 points in their first matchup Week 4 despite yielding 383 yards. They look to limit the Saints' scoring chances again in Week 9. The Saints still might be without RBs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas, but New Orleans comes to town with the ninth-ranked offense (365.1 ypg) and averaging 20.9 points per game. QB Drew Brees will lead a passing offense that features WRs Marques Colston, Lance Moore, Devery Henderson and Robert Meachem.
Analysis: Since allowing the Giants to score 31 points in Week 1, the Panthers defense hasn't allowed an opponent past 23 points in their last six games. Still, Carolina has managed just one win because of a porous offense. Carolina has the fourth-best total defense (301.7 ypg), so they can slow down the Saints' offense. It's just that the Panthers DST is averaging 7.9 Fantasy points per week, so it's not like they are winning over a lot of Fantasy owners. Look to other alternatives before settling on the Panthers DST in Week 9.
News: The Panthers DST gave up 20 points and 246 yards to the Rams in a Week 8 loss. They made two sacks and failed to record a turnover.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has looked a little better of late and certainly helped keep Carolina in the game on Sunday, but the turnovers just weren't there. In Week 9, New Orleans will come to town, and this unit can continue to be pretty much ignored in Fantasy play for now.
News: The Panthers DST will face one of the league's lower-tier offenses in Week 8 when Carolina visits St. Louis. The Panthers DST currently ranks 20th in standard scoring Fantasy leagues, averaging 10.5 points a game.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has been better of late, and if they can limit Steven Jackson on Sunday and force Sam Bradford to throw the ball under pressure, they might be able to do some damage. You need to remember this a unit that was in the top 10 last season, Fantasy-wise. Continue to stash the Panthers DST away for the time being in deeper leagues.
News: The Panthers defense held San Francisco to one offensive touchdown in a 23-20 win in Week 7. Vernon Davis scored a 1-yard touchdown on the 49ers' opening drive, but that was the last time the offense found the end zone. San Francisco's other score came on a interception return. San Francisco managed just 282 yards of offense (183 passing). Carolina had two sacks, including one from Charles Johnson in the third quarter that knocked QB Alex Smith out of the game with a shoulder injury. Carolina also had one interception, which set up John Kasay's game-winning field goal with 39 seconds left.
Analysis: After an 0-5 start to the season, the Panthers used the bye to regroup and actually looked like a football team in Week 7. If the offense can actually keep the defense off the field, it will give the defense time to rest and more momentum in games. This could be a turning point for the Panthers season. We still want to see some consistency out of the Panthers DST, but this is a start. Consider the Panthers DST at best a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 8 against the Rams.
News: The Panthers are rested coming off their bye in Week 6, but they head into Week 7 to face a 49ers team coming off its first win of the season. Carolina is still in the hunt for its first win. The storyline on offense for Carolina is the return of QB Matt Moore. On defense, the Panthers will be trying to avoid letting a fifth opponent break 20 points. Carolina held just New Orleans to less than 20 points this season. The 49ers are 30th in scoring offense (15.5 ppg) and 19th in total offense (317.7 ypg).
Analysis: The defense has been a bit demoralized in 2010 because the offense has been downright atrocious for the Panthers. Carolina is dead last in both scoring offense and total offense. On defense, Carolina is allowing 22 points and 316.8 yards per game. A problem area for the Panthers has been a consistent pass rush sans Julius Peppers, who is now in Chicago. Carolina has just seven sacks, which ranks near the bottom of the NFL. Consider the Panthers DST at best a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 7.
News: Carolina let Chicago RB Matt Forte run wild in the first quarter in Week 5 as he tallied 101 yards on the ground and scored twice. The Bears scored 17 points in that stanza, but the Panthers would hold them to just six points the rest of the way. Carolina finished with three sacks and four interceptions of veteran QB Todd Collins, but the team's offense couldn't get going to help out the cause. The Panthers gave up a total of 269 yards -- 218 yards on the ground and 51 yards through the air. The game plan was to disrupt Collins and they did that, but the Panthers did not have an answer for Forte.
Analysis: Carolina's defense forced more turnovers in the game, which is normally enough for their team to get the win. Over the last two weeks Carolina has forced six turnovers, so the defense is not a problem. But when the offensive unit can't move the ball or score points, it wears players out. The Panthers get a bye next week before taking the field in Week 7 against the 49ers. San Francisco is averaging just under 300 yards of total offense per contest this year, but they average just 13 points per game (through the first four weeks), so Carolina has a chance. Keep the Panthers DST reserved next week and then consider them a low-end No. 2 option against the 49ers.
News: Carolina hosts Chicago in Week 5, and instead of facing Jay Cutler, the Panthers get veteran backup Todd Collins. Last week, the Bears allowed 10 sacks -- one gave Cutler a concussion. "They are going to come out and correct that. It is what it is. We just have to come out and execute. I think they had a lot of communication problems," Panthers DL Charles Johnson said on Thursday. "You look for reasons why or how they gave up that many sacks, especially (nine) in the first half," DL Everette Brown said of facing the Bears in Week 5. Brown said Collins doesn't have the same ability to scramble as Cutler, so the defensive line will have to get a good pocket push.
Analysis: The Panthers are giving up 334.3 total yards of offense -- 113.5 on the ground and 220.8 through the air -- this year. They do get Collins instead of Cutler, so they can focus on stopping the run and forcing Collins to make a big play. That Panthers DST held the Saints to 16 points, but gave up 383 total yards and forced two turnovers. Collins is no Cutler and is far from Drew Brees. Chicago is giving up 4.5 sacks per game and opposing team's DSTs are averaging 16 Fantasy points against them. We view the Panthers DST as a low-end No. 2 option for Week 5.
News: Carolina just missed upsetting the defending Super Bowl champs on Sunday of Week 4. The Panthers DST held the Saints to just 16 points in the 16-14 New Orleans victory. The Panthers DST still gave up 383 total yards to the Saints, however, but did force two turnovers. Quarterback Drew Brees did not throw an interception but the Saints lost two fumbles as James Anderson recovered both. Anderson also had one of two sacks on the game for the Panthers DST.
Analysis: While the Panthers DST limited the Saints, which can be tough to do, they still lost and only managed to force two turnovers with two sacks. That isn't amazing production and the Panthers haven't been great this season as a unit. The Panthers DST has been dismal Fantasy-wise and we don't believe that is going to change Week 5 against a Mike Martz-led Chicago team. The Panthers DST is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 5.
News: The Panthers DST does not look like much of a Fantasy option for Week 4 in New Orleans. The defending champs should pose the biggest test yet for a defense that has come up with five interceptions in three games but just two sacks and has been among the worst-rated DSTs in Fantasy.
Analysis: Carolina has been a mess thus far this season on offense and on defense. The Panthers DST has been dismal Fantasy-wise and their opponents, the defending champion Saints, are not making things easy on opposing DST units. The Vikings, 49ers and Falcons DSTs, respectively, could do little against New Orleans, which has only thrown two interceptions and allowed five sacks on the entire season. The Panthers DST is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 4.
News: Even with Mother Nature slowing down the Bengals offense in Week 3, it still wasn't enough for Carolina to escape with a win. The Panthers lost 20-7 in a rain-soaked affair. Cincinnati RB Cedric Benson totaled two touchdowns and the Bengals finished with 305 total yards (120 rushing). The Panthers did pick off two of Carson Palmer's passes and had one sack.
Analysis: The Panthers came into Week 3 struggling on third downs. They held Cincinnati to just 5 of 17 on third downs, but it wasn't enough to pull out a win. The Panthers are still having problems rushing the passer now that Julius Peppers is in Chicago. We expect Carolina to be trailing, and likely losing, a lot in 2010, so the Panthers DST is a risky Fantasy option. Don't start them in Week 4 against the Saints.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Carolina's defense continues to struggle getting off the field on third down. In Week 2, the Bucs converted five of seven third-down chances in the first half. Kellen Winslow, in particular, was a huge pain for the Panthers. The Tampa Bay tight end had 83 yards receiving on four third-down receptions, all of those resulting in first downs. On one third-and-17 play, Josh Freeman eluded two defenders in the backfield and fired a bullet 40 yards downfield for Winslow. "(Freeman) played great," said linebacker Jon Beason. "He made some nice passes and showed his athletic ability by scrambling when he had to. That's what the game comes down to. We were awful on third downs." The Panthers now turn their focus to the Bengals, their Week 3 opponent.
Analysis: The Bengals' third-down specialist is rookie WR Jordan Shipley, so if he breaks free, then it could be another long day for the Panthers defense. Carolina ranks 22nd in total defense (324.5 ypg) and the Bengals rank 10th in total offense (340.5 ypg). Carolina really misses the pass-rushing presence of Julius Peppers, especially on third down. The Panthers DST is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: Carolina played an ugly game in a 20-7 loss to Tampa Bay in Week 2. The Panthers DST allowed the Buccaneers to rack up 273 yards of offense in the game as Josh Freeman was able to throw two touchdowns without being picked off once. The Panthers did not force a single turnover in the game and did not manage sack as well.
Analysis: Carolina had a 90-degree turnaround from the Week 1 performance against the Giants. Despite losing that game and allowing 31 points and 376 yards, the Panthers DST did come up with four forced turnovers and a sack against Eli Manning and the Giants. They did no such thing in Week 2 in the loss to the Bucs. The Panthers play the Bengals at home in Week 3. While we expect a better effort than in Week 2, we still cannot recommend the Panthers DST as a viable unit to use.
News: The Panthers re-signed CB C.J. Wilson on Friday, who attended camp and has played in Carolina in the past. The move was necessitated by the status of CB Chris Gamble, who did not practice and is questionable for Sunday's game vs. Tampa Bay. The Bucs were able to connect on several deep passes last week, and after the Panthers yielded some long connections to the Giants' Hakeem Nicks in Week 1, chances are the Tampa Bay coaching staff is licking its collective chops at its prospects of throwing long. Additionally, defensive end Tyler Brayton is questionable after missing Friday's workout with a sore ankle, while defensive tackle Louis Leonard is doubtful with an elbow injury.
Analysis: The Panthers might be facing a work-in-progress offense like the Bucs, but that doesn't mean they'll give up some points. Only if you're desperate for Fantasy help in Week 2 should you lean on the Panthers DST.
News: The Panthers allowed 31 points and 376 net yards of offense in Week 1 at the Giants. They were able to force four turnovers (three interceptions, one fumble) in the game and sacked QB Eli Manning once. The Giants were able to exact their revenge against the Panthers after last year's 41-9 drubbing in the final game at the old Giants Stadium.
Analysis: The pass rush was noticeably weaker in their first official game without Julius Peppers after his departure this offseason and that will certainly weaken this units value in Fantasy formats. The interceptions were opportune, coming off deflections by Giants receivers. There is very little to salvage from Carolina's defense that would make them an advisable play for Week 2, but they will be facing a non-threatening matchup against a weak Tampa Bay offense.
News: The Panthers will face the New York Giants on the road in Week 1 in the official regular season opener of the new Meadowlands Stadium. Last season, the Panthers held the Giants to just nine points and 317 total yards in a Week 16 win which also came in New York in the final game for the Giants at the old Giants Stadium. They had four sacks in the game and forced four turnovers.
Analysis: Fantasy owners could look to the Panthers defense as a possible sleeper for Week 1 based on last year's showing. But there are far too many variables. The Giants offense has a good mix of weapons in the passing game and in the running game and it would be asking too much of the Panthers to shut them down in the same way again. With that in mind, it should also be noted that the Panthers won't be intimidated at all by the significance of opening the Giants' new stadium since they had no problem shutting the old one down. Consider the Panthers DST a No. 2 option for Week 1. They have the potential to develop into a starting unit down the line, however.
News:Jon Beason has played in the Pro Bowl the past two seasons. He set a Carolina franchise record last year with 169 tackles, displaying the speed, aggressiveness and hard-hitting that have made him one of the NFL's top middle linebackers. So why in the heck would the Panthers move him to another position? Look in the middle of the field at training camp these days and you won't find Beason. Instead, he's been shuffled to weakside linebacker in a gamble coach John Fox believes will make up for a key injury -- while not limiting the effectiveness of perhaps his top defensive player. It's left Beason, a team leader and one of the few veterans left on the NFL's third-youngest team, scrambling around camp like he's a rookie again. "I'm making strides every day," Beason said as sweat poured down his face following Tuesday's practice. "The beauty of it is we're still installing, so every day I get a new challenge. It allows me to be a rookie again. I have to be on my toes, have to be in my (play)book. This camp has been eventful."
Analysis: When the speedy Thomas Davis went down again in June with a knee injury, the Panthers decided to put reserve Dan Connor at middle linebacker and shift Beason to Davis' old spot. The weakside linebacker, who lines up opposite the tight end, is a key position. Not having to deal with as many blockers, he's supposed to collect numerous tackles in defensive coordinator Ron Meeks' Cover-2 system. "I feel comfortable with him at any linebacker spot," coach John Fox said of Beason. "He's a guy we know the most about. He's got the most history with us. He's got the ability to play at any of those spots." Beason moving to a new position is just one of the challenges the Panthers defense faces. They also have to find pass-rushing options to replace Julius Peppers, who is now in Chicago. Consider the Panthers DST a No. 2 option on Draft Day.
News: When the remaining individual game tickets for the Carolina Panthers went on sale Saturday, the return of Julius Peppers with the Chicago Bears was the only one to immediately sell out. Finding a replacement for Peppers and retooling the defensive line are going to take much longer. Not only did the five-time Pro Bowl pick and franchise sacks leader walk away in free agency in the offseason, the Panthers released three defensive tackles who have started over the past two seasons. Tyler Brayton is the only starter back, and at age 30, he's the oldest defensive lineman on the roster by four years. "It's like been overnight. I've gone from being normal-aged to now I'm the old vet," Brayton said Sunday. "Coaches are looking to me for a little more leadership out there, being the oldest guy. I'm looking to embrace that role. I haven't figured out quite how I'm going to do it yet."
Analysis: Defensive line coach Brian Baker is experimenting with numerous combinations without the freakishly athletic Peppers to demand double teams and line up in different spots on the line. Despite dogged criticism that he took plays off, Peppers had 10 1/2 sacks last season and 81 in his eight years in Carolina. "It's just going to mean each one of the four of us is going to have to step it up a little bit more," Brayton said. "When you don't have that one so-called superstar out there, it just takes more of a group effort. I loved playing with Pep. He was a hardworking, down-to-earth guy and he just loved to get after it, so he's going to be missed. But at the same time we've got to move on." That's easier said than done. The Panthers defense also has to overcome the loss of LB Thomas Davis, who could miss most of the season with an ACL tear. The Panthers DST will be at best a No. 2 Fantasy option on Draft Day and likely a bye-week Fantasy replacement during the season.
News: The NFL has suspended free agent RB LenDale White for four games for violating the league's substance-abuse policy and free agent DT Hollis Thomas for eight games for violating its performance-enhancing substances policy. The 36-year-old Thomas split the 2009 season with Carolina and St. Louis, playing in 13 games for the Panthers. The 14-year veteran signed with Carolina on Oct. 1, a day after he was released by the Rams. The Panthers let him become an unrestricted free agent after last season. The NFL suspended Thomas for the last four games of the 2006 regular season when he was with New Orleans because he tested positive for a banned steroid, which Thomas blamed on his asthma medication.
Analysis: The Panthers DST will miss Thomas to start the season, but the unit is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option with or without Thomas. They should not be drafted in the majority of leagues this season, especially with Julius Peppers now in Chicago and Thomas Davis (ACL) out.
News: With weak-side linebacker Thomas Davis out for an extended period of time after re-tearing his right ACL, the Panthers are forced to move players around to try and find a new balance among their linebacker corps. The latest is that they're moving Pro Bowl linebacker Jon Beason from the middle to the weak side and putting Dan Connor in the middle. James Anderson has remained at the strong-side linebacker position but Jamar Williams is also a consideration. Rookie Eric Norwood, who has been seeing time as a defensive end in camp this offseason, also might get some looks at one of the outside spots. Despite all this shuffling, no spots are locked up and the Panthers remain open to changing where everyone plays -- including moving Beason back to the middle of the defense where he's been very successful.
Analysis: Davis' injury is another blow to a defense that has already taken on its fair share of losses this offseason (DE Julius Peppers being the largest). While there's some promising talent on the team, the defense isn't expected to be anything more than a No. 2 option worth picking up off waivers for one-week use during the season.
News: Carolina LB Thomas Davis has suffered a torn ACL in his right knee for the second time in seven months, likely leaving the Panthers without one of their top defensive players for the 2010 season. The Panthers revealed the extent of Davis' injury Wednesday, a day after his knee buckled in a non-contact drill in a voluntary workout. Davis had been making a remarkably speedy recovery after he was first injured Nov. 8 at New Orleans. He was clocked last month running the 40-yard dash in 4.47 seconds, bringing hope he could return to the form that allowed him to collect 71 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two interceptions in seven games before he was hurt last season. "Thomas is an explosive player. He's a playmaker, a leader, great in our locker room and he's someone everybody respects," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said. "You always hate to lose somebody like that. You feel so bad for him because he really has worked so hard."
Analysis: The Panthers weren't immediately ruling out Davis for the entire 2010 season, as they'll have the option of placing him on the PUP list once he fails his training-camp physical. That would allow them to activate him late in the season. Even with Davis healthy, the Panthers DST was a No. 2 Fantasy option at best. They should not be drafted in the majority of leagues this season.
News: The Panthers added several defenders to pad their depth via the NFL draft and also made a trade as they continue to reshape their defensive roster. The Panthers traded safety Chris Harris to the Bears for LB Jamar Williams, giving them a boost to their run defense while opening starting spots for safeties Sherrod Martin and Charles Godfrey. The Panthers have also added LB Eric Norwood (fourth round; South Carolina), DE Greg Hardy (sixth round; Ole Miss), safety Jordan Pugh (sixth round; Texas A&M), CB R.J. Stanford (seventh round; Utah) and CB Robert McClain (seventh round; UConn).
Analysis: One thing the Panthers haven't done is reliably replaced DE Julius Peppers, who was the key to their defense since 2002. Unless Everette Brown becomes the second coming of Peppers, the Panthers will have a hard time this season. Additionally their run defense was addressed at the linebacker position but not at the defensive line. We consider the Panthers DST a No. 2 option this year only worth a waiver-wire pickup as a one-week replacement when faced with a good matchup.
News: The Panthers have decided the price is too steep to keep their all-time sacks leader. Five-time Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers is about to become one of the top prizes in free agency as GM Marty Hurney announced Tuesday the team won't place the restrictive franchise tag on Peppers for a second consecutive year at a cost of at least $20.1 million. Peppers will become an unrestricted free agent on March 5, meaning the Panthers will likely lose their top defensive player without compensation. "Last night, I learned that the Carolina Panthers would not restrict my availability during the upcoming free agency period," Peppers said in a statement released Tuesday by his agent, Carl Carey. "I feel good about having the opportunity to visit with other teams. My goal will be to find the right match for my skill set. I am thankful for the eight seasons I have spent in the National Football League thus far and am looking forward to beginning this new phase of my career."
Analysis: Peppers has 25 sacks over his last two seasons (at least 10.5 per season) and is clearly the most popular defensive player in free agency this offseason. That doesn't help the Panthers' chances of keeping him, which means this DST is likely headed for a tailspin. The Panthers DST was not a strong option heading into 2010 to begin with, but if they lose Peppers they won't be worth considering at all. To wit: Their best pass rusher without Peppers would be second-year DE Everette Brown.
News:Julius Peppers no longer wants a long-term contract with Carolina, saying the Panthers have ignored him this offseason. In an interview aired Tuesday morning on Charlotte radio station WFNZ-AM, the five-time Pro Bowl defensive end indicated he's irritated by the team's "silence" and has changed his stance on whether he wants to continue his career in Carolina. While agent Carl Carey said last week he believes the Panthers aren't interested in retaining Peppers, team officials haven't announced their plans for the impending free agent. "How can you say you want to be somewhere when you're not really sure if they want you there because they're not even talking to you?" Peppers said.
Analysis: After being held to a career-low 2 1/2 sacks in 2007, Peppers bounced back with a career-high 14 1/2 sacks in 2008. After recording 10 1/2 sacks in 2009, Peppers made the Pro Bowl and earned a $1.5 million bonus. He's a free agent again this offseason, but the franchise tag would cost the Panthers just over $20 million in guaranteed money. The Panthers have until Feb. 25 to use the franchise tag. The Panthers DST is not a strong option heading into 2010 to begin with, but if they lose Peppers they won't be worth considering at all. We'll keep you posted.
News: The Carolina DST stopped the playoff-bound New Orleans Saints in their tracks in Week 17 with a 23-10 victory in the regular-season finale. Of course, the Saints did not play many of their regulars in the game, including Drew Brees, Lance Moore and Pierre Thomas. The Panthers DST limited the Saints to 213 yards of offense. The Panthers forced three turnovers with two fumble recoveries and one interception of QB Mark Brunell. Carolina did not sack Brunell in the game, however.
Analysis: The Panthers DST limited yards and points against the Saints in the Week 17 win but didn't exactly get a bunch of Fantasy points off turnovers and sacks. Carolina's DST has been a low-end Fantasy option for most of the 2009 season and that is how they should enter 2010.
News:Sports Illustrated reports that the Saints will start Mark Brunell at quarterback in Week 17 at Carolina. Drew Brees, who typically starts for the Saints, will be the No. 3/emergency quarterback. There's additional speculation separate from the report that the Saints will rest their starters for their playoff run; RB Pierre Thomas has already been ruled out.
Analysis: We like the Panthers DST as a No. 1 option in Week 17 since they won't play the real high-powered Saints defense. They're available in 65 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, so if you're looking for an option off waivers, check to see if they're available.
News: The Panthers allowed just nine points and 317 total net yards of offense in Week 16 at the Giants. They forced four turnovers in the game and had four sacks of QB Eli Manning.
Analysis: The Panthers allowed really just one decent drive all game by the Giants. The Giants drove for over 10 plays and had a touchdown overturned on the opening drive of the game, ultimately losing the ball deep in Carolina territory on a fumble. It was all downhill from there. The Panthers defense has played well in its last two games against the Vikings and Giants and could be a sleeper in Week 17, though a matchup against the Saints does not appear to be very appealing considering their offensive prowess.
News: The Panthers DST played great Sunday night against the Vikings in a 26-7 victory. The Panthers had four sacks, one interception, one fumble recovery and a forced fumble. Tyrell Sutton had one kickoff return for 24 yards, Jeff King had a kickoff return for 14 yards and Captain Munnerlyn had three punt returns for 9 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST had a solid game against the Vikings, but they are a low-end Fantasy option. Don't plan on using the Panthers in Week 16 at the Giants.
News: The Panthers DST allowed 20 points and 377 yards to the Patriots in a Week 14 loss. Carolina did force three turnovers (two fumbles, one interception).
Analysis: The Panthers have been forcing a lot of turnovers lately, which is always a positive in Fantasy play. Unfortunately they'll be playing the Vikings in Week 15, so you will want to stay away from them.
News: Carolina couldn't stop Tampa Bay's offense in the Week 13 game but they didn't let them into the end zone. The Panthers DST gave up a ridiculous 469 yards of offense to the Buccaneers but still all Tampa Bay could muster was two Connor Barth 2nd quarter field goals in the 16-6 win for the Panthers. The Panthers DST teed off on QB Josh Freeman. The Panthers sacked Freeman twice in the game and they intercepted him five times. Linebacker Jon Beason had two picks and Chris Gamble, Chris Harris and Charles Godfrey had one apiece.
Analysis: The Panthers DST was almost perfect in Week 13. They didn't get a defensive touchdown and gave up way too many yards but five turnovers forced and two sacks makes up for that. The Panthers DST played well and should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 14 at New England.
News: The Panthers DST had two fumble recoveries, an interception and three sacks Sunday at the Jets in a 17-6 loss. Captain Munnerlyn had two punt returns for 50 yards, and Tyrell Sutton had three kickoff returns for 60 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST played well and should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. Hopefully they will continue to force turnovers like this against the Bucs.
News: The Panthers defense was not all that effective on Thursday in a 24-17 loss to the Dolphins. The unit failed to create a single turnover in the game and did not sack Miami QB Chad Henne once. Julius Peppers forced a fumble but the Dolphins recovered it. On the ground, Ricky Williams torched the Panthers for 119 yards and two touchdowns, also scoring one via a pass. Henne was 17 for 29 in the game, gaining 172 yards and throwing for one touchdown.
Analysis: The Panthers defense did not have an answer to the Miami rushing attack Week 11 even though Ronnie Brown did not play in the game due to a season-ending foor injury. The unit has not lived up to expectations this season and is not recommended most weeks. The Panthers DST does have a somewhat favorable match-up in Week 12 at the Jets. However, they are still not a recommended unit.
News: The Carolina Panthers defeated the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10 in Carolina. The Panthers DST didn't exactly limit the Falcons as they racked up 400 yards of offense in the game but still won 28-19. Carolina sacked QB Matt Ryan twice in the game and they also finished with two interceptions of Ryan.
Analysis: The Panthers DST finished with two sacks and two turnovers forced but that still doesn't make their Fantasy effort one worth starting. Carolina plays Miami on Thursday and we don't recommend their Fantasy use.
News: The Panthers lost perhaps their most productive defensive player Monday when tests showed weakside linebacker Thomas Davis has a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Davis' season-ending injury came without getting hit in Sunday's loss to New Orleans. He was backpedaling when his knee buckled and he crumpled to the turf. It derails Davis' most successful season in another blow for injury-plagued Carolina. "He's played very well. I feel bad for the young man because he's put a lot into it," coach John Fox said before the team revealed the extent of the injury. "He was playing at a high level. It's unfortunate, and I feel bad for him and his family."
Analysis: The Panthers' run defense, which has improved in spite of allowing a rush touchdown in four straight games, does take a hit with the loss of Davis. Not good considering the Panthers will host the Falcons and RB Michael Turner in Week 10. Consider other options before going with the DST in their next matchup.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Panthers LB Thomas Davis was walking without the aid of crutches or a brace after Sunday's game against the Saints. Davis hurt his right knee late in the game and didn't return. He said in the locker room that he thought he had hyper-extended it, but that was certainly no kind of official diagnosis. Davis had six tackles, including two for losses, against New Orleans. Davis has been hampered by injuries since training camp opened. He missed much of the preseason with a knee injury, then didn't play against Buffalo two weeks ago because of a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Hopefully for the Panthers and Fantasy owners Davis is OK and can return in Week 10 against the Falcons. When healthy, Davis is a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues.
News: The Panthers defense couldn't stop the Saints at New Orleans in Week 9, allowing 30 points on 414 yards. The Panthers recorded one sack and one interception and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has some playmakers, but its inconsistency makes it the kind of unit only worth using in the right matchups. Against the Falcons in Week 10, you have to expect it to allow some points and yardage. Consider it a No. 2 unit in Fantasy.
News: The Panthers had an unexpectedly dominant defense performance at Arizona in Week 8, intercepting Cardinals QB Kurt Warner five times, with one of them returned for a touchdown. They also had two sacks, allowing 21 points on 320 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST never had more than one interception in its previous six games, but it did pile up sacks consistently, mostly because of Julius Peppers. It's still too inconsistent to use on an every-week basis in Fantasy, so you'll probably want to look elsewhere for the tough matchup Week 9 at New Orleans.
News: The Panthers limited the visiting Bills to only 167 yards in Week 7, but they allowed 20 points. They also lacked big defensive plays, finishing with two sacks and zero interceptions.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has some playmakers like Julius Peppers on it, but the sum over the years has equaled less than the parts. With the right matchup, it's worth using in Fantasy, but it doesn't have such a matchup Week 8 at Arizona.
News: Carolina squeaked out a victory in Tampa Bay in Week 6. They won the game 28-21 on a last-minute rushing touchdown from DeAngelo Williams. The Panthers DST limited the Bucs to 245 yards in the game and forced two turnovers. It could have been far more. Bucs QB Josh Johnson fumbled five times but only one was lost. He also threw a pick. Carolina sacked Johnson four times and Julius Peppers and Charles Johnson had two apiece.
Analysis: The Panthers DST did little against the Bucs despite the win. They haven't been all that great this season and have rarely been worth even owning in Fantasy play. They might be a decent low-end bye-week replacement for Week 7 against Buffalo but that is about it.
News: Carolina finally picked up their first win of the season Week 5 against the Washington Redskins. The Panthers DST limited Washington's porous offense to new levels of futility with just 198 total yards in a 20-17 win. The Panthers forced one turnover in the game on a punt return when the ball hit off Washington's Byron Westbrook for a fumble that led to the Panthers game-winning touchdown. The Panthers also sacked Jason Campbell five times in the win and forced a safety when Thomas Davis stopped Clinton Portis in the end zone in the 2nd quarter. Finally, Carolina also converted a 2-point coversion in the 4th quarter after a Jonathan Stewart TD run put them up for good.
Analysis: To recap, the Panthers DST limited the yards for Washington to 198 and forced one turnover with five sacks, a safety and a 2-point conversion in the game. They were dismal on Monday night in Week 3, the last time they took the field, but the Redskins' laughable offense made them look loads better in Week 5. Carolina plays at Tampa Bay in Week 6 and they might just be a decent bye-week replacement option at this point.
News: The Carolina Panthers did not look like a team that could win its first game on Monday night against the Dallas Cowboys in Big D. The Panthers lost the game 21-7 and allowed 449 yards of offense to the Cowboys. The defense was only scored upon twice as Dallas ran back an interception for a touchdown but the damage was done. Jon Beason once again was solid for the Panthers DST as he finished with 11 tackles and a sack. The Panthers had two sacks of QB Tony Romo but did not force a single turnover in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers defense looked pretty bad against the pass and the rush on Monday night as Dallas ran and passed all over the field. The only part of the defense that seemed solid was the goal-line group that didn't let Dallas score a few times deep in its territory. The Panthers DST is usually a low-end Fantasy option. The team has a bye in Week 4 and will return to face Washington in Week 5.
News: The Carolina Panthers have signed defensive tackle Antwon Burton to replace Louis Leonard, who broke his left ankle in Sunday's loss to Atlanta and was placed on injured reserve. Burton is Carolina's latest big body to help fill the hole at defensive tackle after Maake Kemoeatu ruptured his Achilles' tendon in training camp.
Analysis: This addresses a hole in the Panthers' defense but not very well. This team has already been burned on the ground by the Eagles and the Falcons in consecutive weeks. They've got the Cowboys in Week 3 and are sure to struggle to pin down their offense. Frankly, there are better options out there than the Panthers DST and thus they shouldn't be used in standard Fantasy leagues.
News: Panthers defensive tackle Louis Leonard has a broken left ankle, another blow to Carolina's thin and shaky defensive line. Leonard was injured with just over a minute to go on the final defensive play of Sunday's loss at Atlanta. Coach John Fox on Monday wouldn't say for sure that Leonard will be placed on season-ending injured reserve, but the Panthers will almost certainly have to sign another defensive tackle. Leonard was acquired Sept. 1 from Cleveland for a 2010 late-round draft pick to help replace starter Maake Kemoeatu.
Analysis: This absolutely will not help the Panthers DST as they've already been burned on the ground by the Eagles and the Falcons in consecutive weeks. They've got the Cowboys in Week 3 and are sure to struggle to pin down Marion Barber and Felix Jones, not to mention the rest of the offense. Frankly, there are better options out there than the Panthers DST and thus they shouldn't be used in standard Fantasy leagues.
News: The Panthers forced two turnovers, but did not have a sack in Week 2 at Atlanta. They allowed 371 net yards of total offense and gave up 28 points in a loss.
Analysis: The Panthers improved considering their lackluster effort against the Eagles in Week 1, but it was still a mediocre output. Until Carolina once again shows us some reliability, the Panthers DST is at best a No. 2 option heading into Week 3 against at Dallas.
News: While the Panthers only gave up 267 yards of offense and knocked out Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (ribs) in Week 1, it was still not a pretty effort for the team's defense and special teams units. Philadelphia dropped 38 points on the Panthers, while getting a scoring on a fumble and punt return. Carolina yielded 186 rushing yards, while getting two sacks and two turnovers (one interception).
Analysis: The Panthers are looking to be more aggressive defensively in 2009 after a disappointing 2008 performance. They did a pretty good job keeping Philly under 300 yards, but unfortunate turnovers gave Philly great field position and they were able to capitalize. So the numbers were a bit misleading. Until Carolina once again shows us some reliability, the Panthers DST is at best a No. 2 option heading into Week 2 against the Falcons.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Steve Smith could return punts in Week 1 against Philadelphia. According to the report, coach John Fox would not say who will return punts, but did say the candidates include Smith and Chris Gamble.
Analysis: Smith and Gamble both have some explosive play-making ability that could add to the probability that the Panthers could return a kick for a touchdown in Week 1 against the Eagles. The return game was a problem for the team in the preseason, but this would add to the appeal that the Panthers DST and ST units have in Fantasy leagues. The Panthers will face a very good offensive team in Week 1 in the Eagles and while they may give up some points and yards, the return game and ability to rack up sacks with the likes of Julius Peppers make them a solid start in most formats.
News: Carolina linebacker Jon Beason has returned to practice, giving the Panthers hope he'll be ready for Sunday's opener against Philadelphia. Coach John Fox said after Wednesday's workout that he "looked great." Beason has been out since spraining the medial collateral ligament in his left knee in the second exhibition game Aug. 22. The hard-hitting middle linebacker led the Panthers in tackles the past two seasons and made his first Pro Bowl last year.
Analysis: Beason's presence helps the Panthers defense slow down the run, plus it affords him the chance to make a boatload of tackles. Consider Beason a good No. 1 Fantasy LB assuming he plays, but his presence won't be enough to make the Panthers DST a No. 1 option this week.
News: The Carolina Panthers have traded an undisclosed draft pick to the Cleveland Browns for defensive tackle Louis Leonard. The move on Tuesday helps shore up the biggest area of need for the Panthers, who lost starter Maake Kemoeatu to a ruptured Achilles' tendon on the opening day of training camp. Leonard was signed by San Diego in 2007 after going undrafted out of Fresno State. He was later waived by the Chargers and St. Louis before signing with the Browns during the middle of the 2007 season. Leonard played all 16 games for Cleveland last season, including four starts, and had 31 tackles. The Panthers hope he'll help improve a leaky run defense.
Analysis: Leonard should help the run defense in Carolina, though the team will definitely miss Kemoeatu this season. The Panthers DST is buoyed by Julius Peppers' production and the play of their secondary, with LB Jon Beason (who is on the mend from a knee injury) helpful vs. the run more than anything else. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST at this point worth using as a one-week replacement during the year.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Jon Beason hints in his blog that he may not be available for Week 1. "I'm feeling a lot better by the day, I'm encouraged by how I feel right now. For me it's all about getting back on the field. The crazy part is, even though Week 1 isn't the Super Bowl, or the playoffs, or a game for the division title, I want to play, and I'd be willing to suck it up. But this is a long season, and I have to make sure I'm healthy for the long haul." Beason left Saturday's exhibition loss to Miami with a left knee injury. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said the injury was a strained medial collateral ligament, and he was optimistic his client could return for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: The Panthers used the 25th pick in the 2007 draft on Beason, who starred at Miami. He set a team record with 160 tackles his rookie year and was selected to his first Pro Bowl last season, when he had 159 tackles and tied for the team lead with three interceptions. Beason's absence would provide another obstacle for coordinator Ron Meeks, who ran Indianapolis' defense the past seven years. He took over a team that gave up 30 or more points in five of the final seven games last season, and was already facing a severe depth shortage on the defensive line. It seems Beason's status for the beginning of the season is still up in the air. We still recommend drafting Beason in all Fantasy IDP formats since he is a No. 1 Fantasy LB when healthy. The Panthers DST is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy option since Meeks still has some issues to sort out.
News: Starting free safety Charles Godfrey underwent surgery Monday to repair a broken bone in his right hand, two days after he was injured in an exhibition loss to Miami. Coach John Fox wouldn't say how long Godfrey, a 2008 third-round round pick from Iowa who started all 16 games last season, will be out. But with his backup, Nate Salley, still sidelined with a sore knee, the Panthers scrambled to sign veteran safety Kevin Kaesviharn on Monday. Godfrey may be able to return for the regular-season opener wearing a cast, but Quinton Teal will likely immediately move into Carolina's starting lineup. Kaesviharn could be an option, too. "He's a veteran safety that we think can step in and help us," Fox said. "He's got some catching up to do, but he's proven he can play."
Analysis: This definitely punches a hole in the Panthers' secondary, making them a little less appealing than they were before Godfrey's accident. The Panthers DST is buoyed by Julius Peppers' production and the play of their secondary, with LB Jon Beason (who is on the mend from a knee injury) helpful vs. the run more than anything else. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST at this point.
News: The Carolina Panthers entered training camp with a new defensive coordinator, a more aggressive scheme and plenty of motivation in the locker room to erase memories of their late-season slide in 2008. Halfway through the preseason, injuries are derailing their plans. Jon Beason, Carolina's middle linebacker, leading tackler and defensive leader, is the latest concern. He left Saturday's exhibition loss to Miami with a left knee injury. Beason's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said the injury was a strained medial collateral ligament, and he was optimistic his client could return for the start of the regular season. Rosenhaus made his comments late Sunday on his weekly appearance on WSVN-TV in Miami. A team spokesman declined to reveal the results of a scheduled MRI exam. Rosenhaus and Panthers general manager Marty Hurney didn't return messages. Beason also didn't update his Twitter page or Web site.
Analysis: The lack of depth behind Beason, Carolina's leading tackler the past two seasons, is glaring. Dan Connor, who played three NFL games as a rookie before tearing his ACL last season, is his backup. Beason said he stayed in the game for a couple of plays after he was injured. "I was getting off a block and I'm not sure if someone came at me intentionally or if they fell on it," Beason said. "I'm assuming someone fell on it." The Panthers used the 25th pick in the 2007 draft on Beason, who starred at Miami. He set a team record with 160 tackles his rookie year and was selected to his first Pro Bowl last season, when he had 159 tackles and tied for the team lead with three interceptions. Beason's absence would provide another obstacle for coordinator Ron Meeks, who ran Indianapolis' defense the past seven years. He took over a team that gave up 30 or more points in five of the final seven games last season, and was already facing a severe depth shortage on the defensive line. It seems Beason dodged a real bullet, but his status for the beginning of the season is still up in the air. Continue to draft Beason in all Fantasy IDP formats since he is a No. 1 Fantasy LB when healthy. The Panthers DST is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy option since Meeks still has some issues to sort out.
News: The Gaston Gazette reports Panthers LB Jon Beason's knee injury is not serious and he won't need surgery, according to two sources close to Beason. He is hoping to be ready for the regular season opener against the Eagles, although that remains up in the air. One source said Beason's injury "isn't serious" and another added that "he won't need surgery." Depending on the severity of the injury that can be anywhere from two to six weeks, which still could put Beason's availability for the season opener at risk. Beason said after the game he didn't think he tore his ACL, an injury that almost certainly would have ended his season. Beason won't play in the final two preseason games.
Analysis: This is bad news for Beason, but it could be worse if he's not able to play for the regular-season opener against the Eagles. When healthy, Beason is a No. 1 Fantasy LB in IDP leagues, and he's a key cog for the Panthers DST. Hopefully he will be 100 percent soon and won't miss any time when the real games start.
News: Panthers LB Jon Beason hurt his knee in Saturday's preseason game at Miami. He was injured in the first quarter and did not return.
Analysis: Beason had dealt with a hamstring problem earlier in training camp, so he's been a little banged up to start this year. Keep an eye on his health and hope he's OK. He is a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues when he's 100 percent. The Panthers DST also need a healthy Beason to be effective.
News: Carolina Panthers starting defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu is likely lost for the season due to a torn right Achilles' tendon. Kemoeatu was injured minutes into the Panthers' opening training-camp practice Monday while running during a position drill. He was carted to the locker room, then taken to Charlotte, where the tear was discovered. Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said they have yet to determine if they will place Kemoeatu on Injured Reserve; recovery time from that injury is several months.
Analysis: The loss of the mammoth run-stopper is a big blow, hitting the Panthers where they have the least depth. You can fully expect offenses to run at the Panthers knowing that an untested trio of defensive tackles will rotate in Kemoeatu's place for the next year. Additionally, creating a pass rush will be tougher since Kemoeatu won't be there to force double-teams and potentially free up DE Julius Peppers. The Panthers DST remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option, but with others looking just as enticing (Redskins, Packers, 49ers to name three), they're not a lock to be drafted in every league this summer.
News:Julius Peppers' long stalemate with the Carolina Panthers is over. The four-time Pro Bowl defensive end signed his one-year, $16.7 million tender under the franchise tag Wednesday, ending the chances that Peppers could hold out at the start of training camp. Peppers said at the end of last season that he wanted to play elsewhere and pleaded with Carolina to allow him to become a free agent. The Panthers still placed the franchise tag on him, limiting his movement. Peppers refused to attend offseason minicamps and optional workouts, and there were concerns he wouldn't show up for training camp. But by signing the deal, the Panthers are likely assured of his attendance when players report Aug. 2.
Analysis: That's good news for Peppers and the Panthers; without him the entire defense would struggle. We're starting to warm up to this DST as a low-end No. 1 option since Peppers can bring heat and the rest of the team can benefit. There's no return game to spark them, though. Ultimately consider the Panthers DST with a late-round choice in drafts this summer.
News:Jon Beason is the most sought after Panther these days not by going from rookie holdout to top tackler and team leader in less than two years. It's because the chiseled linebacker is apparently the only person in the organization who's been in contact with Julius Peppers, the disgruntled and absent four-time Pro Bowl defensive end. "I talked to him last weekend," Beason said. "He said he's doing good, he's training and he'll be ready to go when training camp gets here." Beason indicated Peppers hadn't committed to being there on the first day, however.
Analysis: This is a good sign as the Panthers defense will struggle without a motivated Peppers rushing the quarterback in 2009. We're starting to warm up to this DST as a low-end No. 1 option since Peppers can bring heat and the rest of the team can benefit. There's no return game to spark them, though. Ultimately consider the Panthers DST with a late-round choice in drafts this summer.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that franchise-tagged DE Julius Peppers is unlikely to leave the Panthers via trade this offseason, and that he'll eventually return to play on his one-year tender worth $17 million. Peppers has voiced his frustrations with the team and has said he wants to leave, but no team has made him an offer.
Analysis: The Panthers DST needs Peppers back in 2009 if they're going to have a chance to be useful in Fantasy play -- without him, they're lacking a quality pass rush, and that kind of problem would create a negative trickle-down effect across the rest of the defense. They're no better than a low-end No. 1 DST even if they have Peppers. Without him, they'd be undraftable.
News: Panthers GM Marty Hurney remains confident defensive end Julius Peppers will return to the team next season, even as he's made public his wishes to play elsewhere. Hurney said there were no new developments in the stalemate with their four-time Pro Bowl pick. The Panthers placed the franchise tag on Peppers. He has not signed the one-year tender for $16.7 million, however, and has said he won't sign a long-term deal with Carolina. Hurney said he doesn't believe Peppers would hold out of training camp. "We've known Julius for seven years, and it has been a good seven years," Hurney said. "I think he knows how we feel, and we feel like he's been happy here. And again, nothing has changed. We franchised him, and when we did we knew there was a period for the process to take place. When that process goes through then he's going to be back."
Analysis: The Panthers DST needs Peppers back in 2009 if they're going to have a chance to be useful in Fantasy play -- without him, they're lacking a quality pass rush, and that kind of problem would create a negative trickle-down effect across the rest of the defense. They're no better than a low-end No. 1 DST even if they have Peppers. Without him, they'd be undraftable.
News: The Panthers denied an NFL.com report Monday that they've discussed trading four-time Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers to the Patriots. The team claims they aren't allowed to have any trade talks involving Peppers until he signs his one-year tender, worth $16.7 million, or until his agent brokers a deal with another team and comes to Carolina for approval. The Panthers and Patriots were reportedly close to a deal that would send Peppers to the Patriots for New England's second-round pick, 34th overall, that was acquired from Kansas City in the Matt Cassel trade. "By the rules of the (collective bargaining agreement) we cannot and have not had any conversations with other teams about Julius," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said in a statement. "Under the non-exclusive franchise tag, Julius and his agent, Carl Carey, are within their rights to talk to other teams about a potential contract. However, at this point, we are not aware of any such conversations."
Analysis: Peppers, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2002 draft and Carolina's all-time sacks leader, announced after the season that he wanted to play elsewhere, and preferably move to outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, which New England employs. But the Panthers still placed the franchise tag on Peppers, which allows teams to sign Peppers only if they surrender two first-round picks in return. However, Peppers and his agent could work out a deal for less compensation and take it to the Panthers for approval. A trade could avoid an ugly holdout. The Panthers DST needs Peppers back in 2009 if they're going to have a chance to be useful in Fantasy play -- without him, they're lacking a quality pass rush, and that kind of problem would create a negative trickle-down effect across the rest of the defense. They're no better than a low-end No. 1 DST even if they have Peppers. Without him, they'd be undraftable.
News: Seven months after forgiving teammate Steve Smith for his nose-breaking sucker-punch, the Panthers released starting cornerback Ken Lucas on Wednesday in a salary-cap move. The decision clears about $2.3 million and comes after the Panthers failed to work out a trade for the veteran, who struggled late last season. Lucas vetoed a deal to the Detroit Lions last month. The 30-year-old Lucas struggled late last season, when the Panthers' defense became a weak point leading to their 33-13 loss to Arizona in the NFC divisional playoffs. Lucas' departure likely means nickel back Richard Marshall will be promoted to the starting job opposite Chris Gamble, who signed a contract extension late last year.
Analysis: While we're not too concerned with the drop off between Lucas and Marshall, we are concerned that the Panthers' cornerback depth isn't as good now. This unit continues to sink in our eyes, and it will reach a new low if they trade DE Julius Peppers this offseason. Peppers is franchised, but he's essentially the lifeblood of the defense since he provides such a quality pass rush. This DST is a borderline No. 1/No. 2 option worth a look as a late-round pick in 2009 drafts.
News: Immediately after signing OT Jordan Gross to a six-year extension, the Panthers slapped the franchise tag on DE Julius Peppers, according to NFL Network. Peppers will now be offered a guaranteed one-year deal worth $16.683 million. He can still shop himself around to other teams, but if he signs with a club and the Panthers opt to not match, the club would receive two first-round picks from the new team as compensation. Peppers has made it clear that he does not want to continue his career with the Panthers, so he will likely try to work his way out of town via trade, assuming the Panthers receive an offer for him. The veteran defensive end gave the club four teams he'd like to be traded to: Dallas, an unnamed AFC club and two NFC South division rivals. The Cowboys don't have a first-round pick and the Panthers won't trade Peppers within their division.
Analysis: This all will ultimately spell the end of Peppers in Carolina, which is very bad news for the DST since he's the generator of their defensive stats, especially sacks. Without Peppers pressuring the quarterback, the secondary's job is harder and the team doesn't have an elite rusher to replace him with. That's why we don't like the Panthers DST as anything more than a No. 2 unit in 2009 assuming Peppers doesn't end up there. We'll keep you posted on Peppers' status throughout the offseason.
News: The Charlotte Observer and the Rock Hill Herald both report that DE Julius Peppers, scheduled to be a free agent later this month, gave the Panthers four teams that he'd be willing to be traded to. The Herald said that Dallas was one of the four teams, an AFC club was another team and two NFC South teams were on the list. The Panthers won't likely deal Peppers to a division rival and can't ask the Cowboys for a first-round pick because they don't have one. Peppers doesn't want to be tagged and says he'll ask for a trade if he is indeed tagged, the deadline for which is Thursday.
Analysis: This all ultimately spells the end of Peppers in Carolina, which is very bad news for the DST since he's the generator of their defensive stats, especially sacks. Without Peppers pressuring the quarterback, the secondary's job is harder and the team doesn't have an elite rusher to replace him with. That's why we don't like the Panthers DST as anything more than a No. 2 unit in 2009 assuming Peppers doesn't end up there. We'll keep you posted on Peppers' status throughout the offseason.
News: In a sideline interview during the 2009 Pro Bowl, free-agent-to-be DE Julius Peppers confirmed that he doesn't want to play for the Panthers any more. He also said that he would be interested in moving to a 'Joker' role in a team's 3-4 defense. "I just feel it's time to move on," Peppers said. The Panthers still have the right to use the franchise tag on him, limiting his movement in the offseason (or getting something for him in trade).
Analysis: Peppers is a humongous piece to the Panthers' defensive puzzle. Without him, they would hardly generate a pass rush, and when that happens it's easy to pick apart a defense through the air. Even with the Panthers' talented secondary, they'll struggle (see the Packers, Redskins and Cardinals this season). If Peppers leaves Carolina, we don't like this DST as anything more than a No. 2 option unless they sufficiently replace him. We'll keep you posted.
News: The Carolina Panthers have hired Ron Meeks as their new defensive coordinator. Meeks spent the past seven seasons running the Indianapolis Colts' defense. He replaces Mike Trgovac, who resigned last week despite being offered a contract extension. The 54-year-old Meeks will take over a defense that struggled at the end of the season. Carolina allowed 30 or more points in six of its last seven games, including in a 33-13 loss to Arizona in the NFC divisional playoffs.
Analysis: Meeks is also well versed in the Cover-2 defense and should be helpful in Carolina. Still, the Panthers have to do something about DE Julius Peppers, a free agent, and they'll be thin at defensive tackle this offseason with DT Damione Lewis having shoulder surgery. We think the Panthers DST will be less effective in 2009, especially if they let Peppers go.
News: Mike Trgovac became the fourth assistant to leave Carolina coach John Fox's staff since the Panthers' upset playoff loss to Arizona, adding more uncertainty to what has already become a tumultuous offseason. Trgovac informed Fox and GM Marty Hurney of his decision at Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, Ala. The move came after the Panthers had offered their defensive coordinator a contract extension. Defensive ends coach Sal Sunseri, a close friend of Fox, left for Alabama after seven seasons with the Panthers. Linebackers coach Ken Flajole also left this week after six seasons in Carolina to become defensive coordinator of the Rams. It's unclear how Fox will replace Trgovac, and whether that decision might make defensive end Julius Peppers reconsider his decision to want out. Peppers' agent, Carl Carey, said last week that Peppers would not sign a long-term deal with the Panthers when he becomes an unrestricted free agent next month. The Panthers could still place the franchise tag on Peppers, which would virtually guarantee he'd stay at Carolina in a one-year deal worth about $16.7 million.
Analysis: The Panthers struggled on defense late this season, giving up 30 or more points in six of their last seven games, including a 33-13 home playoff loss to Arizona that came on the heels of a 12-4 regular season. Peppers' desire to leave also dampens the value of this once-bright DST. They still have lots of talent, but with no one proven coaching 'em up, questions are mounting. Without Peppers, the Panthers would lack a pure pass rusher capable of creating turnovers and sacks. It would be bad news for this DST if they were to lose Peppers.
News: After spending his entire life in North Carolina, Julius Peppers wants out. The four-time Pro Bowl defensive end has decided he won't sign a long-term deal with the Panthers when he becomes an unrestricted free agent on Feb. 26. Peppers, who grew up in tiny Bailey, N.C., starred in college at North Carolina and was the Panthers' first-round pick in 2002, believes Carolina's defensive system is not for him - even after recording a career-high 14 1/2 sacks this season. Peppers' agent said his client wants to play in a 3-4 defense. The Panthers use a 4-3 alignment. "He certainly feels that he can excel and thrive in a 3-4 defense," the agent, Carl Carey, said. "He is also open to just another system in general that will allow him to maximize his athletic abilities."
Analysis: Without Peppers, the Panthers would lack a pure pass rusher capable of creating turnovers and sacks. It would be bad news for this DST if they were to lose Peppers.
News: The Panthers DST was more of a victim of the team's offense playing poorly than anything else. The offense gave the ball up six times and that helped the Cardinals' offense put 33 points up on the board against the Panthers defense. The defense did have an interception and a sack to its credit in the game. Kurt Warner threw for 220 yards against them and the Cardinals rushing attack grossed 155 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers defense looked bad heading into the playoffs and they didn't put up much of a fight in the Divisional Playoff game. They were one of the top units all season but faded down the stretch. They will be a No. 1 defense next season and will hopefully play more like they did earlier in the season than later.
News: The Panthers DST gave up 386 passing yards to QB Drew Brees as he tried to break Dan Marino's single-season passing yards record. The Panthers gave up 31 points and 50 yards on the ground in the game. Dante Wesley did score a touchdown on a fumble recovery on a kickoff return by the Saints.
Analysis: The Panthers defense did not look all that good against the high octane Saints offense. They have given up 67 points the last two games in must-wins. The Panthers will be a No. 1 defense in the playoffs and next season, but they'll need to figure things out before their NFC divisional playoff game in two weeks.
News: The Panthers were without both starting defensive tackles at practice Wednesday, ahead of their regular-season finale against the league's top offense. Maake Kemoeatu, who missed last Sunday's loss to the Giants with a sprained right ankle, rode a stationary bike during the workout. Damione Lewis, who injured his shoulder against the Giants, also sat out. That could leave the Panthers with Darwin Walker and rookie Nick Hayden as the starters against high-scoring New Orleans in a game Carolina needs to win to secure the No. 2 seed in the NFC and a first-round bye in the playoffs. "They weren't able to practice today and we'll see what tomorrow brings," coach John Fox said. "Neither one of them are out for an extended time. It's just a matter of getting them ready. When the medical people clear them, they'll play."
Analysis: If the Panthers are thin along the defensive line, it's going to make it harder to sack Drew Brees, who is expected to throw quite a bit against the Panthers on Sunday in an attempt to break Dan Marino's single-season passing yardage record (he needs 402 yards). Consider this unit a top-end No. 2 option given the matchup and the likelihood that the Saints will put up some solid yardage.
News: The Panthers allowed 459 yards of offense and 34 points in a 34-28 overtime loss at the Giants in Week 16. They did not force any turnovers, but did manage three sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers ripped to shreds by the running combo of Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward to the tune of 301 yards. Ward rushed for 215 yards and the Panthers seemed to be tired and weak after repeated battering by the two runners over the course of the game. The Panthers will play a tough offensive team in Week 17 at New Orleans, making them a low-end option.
News: Defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu missed practice Wednesday and Thursday with a sprained right ankle but did practice on a limited basis on Friday in hopes of playing against the Giants in Week 16. A key to Carolina's run defense, Kemoeatu's absence would hurt as the Panthers face the run-oriented Giants with the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs at stake. "We've got guys on the team we feel good about that have played a lot of football all season long," coach John Fox said Wednesday. "It's not like Maake or anybody out there plays every play. We've got guys out there that have made great contributions and we'll expect the same thing this week against New York." Fox, always secretive on injuries, would only say that Kemoeatu is day to day. If he can't play, veteran Darwin Walker could get the start. Additionally, LB Jon Beason is probable for the game after he missed practice Friday with an illness.
Analysis: If Kemoeatu is gone, the Panthers run defense will take a hit. The Panthers DST will have their hands full with the Giants in Week 16, which is why they're a middle-of-the-pack No. 1 Fantasy DST. You can still use them and expect to pick up a couple of sacks and turnovers, but anything else seems tough to fathom at this point.
News: Defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu missed practice Wednesday with a sprained right ankle, making it possible a Panthers defensive starter will miss a game for the first time this season. All 11 defenders have started all 14 games, but Kemoeatu was seen on crutches on wearing a protective boot on Monday. A key to Carolina's run defense, Kemoeatu's absence would hurt as the Panthers face the run-oriented Giants with the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs at stake. "We've got guys on the team we feel good about that have played a lot of football all season long," coach John Fox said. "It's not like Maake or anybody out there plays every play. We've got guys out there that have made great contributions and we'll expect the same thing this week against New York." Fox, always secretive on injuries, would only say that Kemoeatu is day to day. If he can't play, veteran Darwin Walker could get the start.
Analysis: If Kemoeatu is gone, their run defense will take a hit. The Panthers DST will have their hands full with the Giants in Week 16, which is why they're a middle-of-the-pack No. 1 Fantasy DST. You can still use them and expect to pick up a couple of sacks and turnovers, but anything else seems tough to fathom at this point.
News: The Panthers DST allowed only 10 points to the potent Denver offense in Week 15. They allowed only 279 yards in the game and DB Chris Gamble came up with an interception.
Analysis: The Panthers DST forced only one turnover and didn't record a sack, but they have been a solid unit all year. They are a must-start option Week 16 at New York against the Giants.
News: The Panthers defense allowed 23 points on 384 yards against the Buccaneers in Week 14. It also recorded four sacks, giving it at least one in seven straight games.
Analysis: The Panthers DST can come up with some big plays, but it's not one of the four or five most reliable units in Fantasy. With an iffy matchup against the Broncos in Week 15, you should probably reserve it for the matchup.
News: In the Panthers' 35-31 win at the Packers in Week 13, the DST was quiet, totaling two sacks (Julius Peppers owned both) and one interception (Jon Beason).
Analysis: The Panthers DST should still be a decent option when they host the Buccaneers in Week 14.
News: The Panthers defense gave up 45 points on 392 yards at Atlanta in Week 12. It had only one sack and one fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Panthers DST had begun to look like one of the best Fantasy units in recent weeks, but in fairness, it last faced the Raiders and the Lions. It has a tough matchup Week 13 at Green Bay, so consider it an iffy start in Fantasy.
News: Carolina defeated the winless Lions in Week 11 but it was a little close for comfort at 31-22. The Panthers DST allowed the Lions to go over 300 yards with 316, though they did force four turnovers. Carolina's Charles Godfrey recorded a fumble recovery and an interception and Na'il Diggs had the other pick. Carolina picked up three sacks of QB Daunte Culpepper as Julius Peppers had two.
Analysis: With four turnovers and three sacks it was a pretty good day against a team the Panthers defense should have dominated. They have a tougher test in Week 12 at Atlanta but consider the Panthers DST a No. 1 option regardless.
News: Carolina defeated Oakland 17-6 on Sunday of Week 10 as the Panthers DST limited Oakland to just 259 yards. The Panthers committed four turnovers themselves but also forced three Raiders turnovers. Oakland, playing without QB JaMarcus Russell and RB Darren McFadden, could not get into the end zone and backup QB Andrew Walter was forced out of the game with an injury. The Panthers got to Walker and Marquis Tuiasosopo for five sacks as Julius Peppers had three of them. Walter threw two interceptions as Chris Gamble and Richard Marshall picked him off.
Analysis: The Panthers DST did everything but get into the end zone in the Week 10 victory. The Raiders are not normally very good offensively and were even worse this week due to injuries. The good news for Carolina is that they play lowly Detroit in Week 11 and should be able to have another great defensive effort. Consider the Panthers DST a high-end No. 1 option in Week 11.
News: ESPN reports that Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell won't start and likely won't play vs. the Panthers in Week 10. Russell missed practice Friday with tendinitis in his right knee. Andrew Walter is expected to start in his place.
Analysis: This is icing on the cake for the Panthers, who might also not have to see rookie RB Darren McFadden. The Panthers DST should be starting in all leagues in Week 10 -- expect them to hold the Raiders to a low yardage total along with a low point total with a couple of takeaways. Don't forget that the Panthers are rested and coming off a bye, too.
News: The Panthers DST had two sacks, one interception and a fumble recovery Sunday against Arizona in a 27-23 victory. Mark Jones had three kickoff returns for 86.1 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option and should be used in Week 10 at Oakland following the Panthers bye in Week 9.
News: The numbers are impressive. The praise is lacking -- or so the players say. The Panthers' secondary is allowing less than 168.7 yards passing per game -- only Pittsburgh allows fewer yards =- and has given up only five touchdown receptions in a 5-2 start. With Ken Lucas, Chris Gamble and Richard Marshall, the Panthers have three solid cornerbacks. Strong safety Chris Harris led the NFL in forced fumbles last year and has two more this year. Rookie free safety Charles Godfrey has been a pleasant surprise. A physical, aggressive unit, Marshall thinks they're as good as any secondary in the league. He's just not sure enough people realize it. "It's good because it has us going in with a chip on our shoulders before the game," Marshall said Wednesday. "We've got to go in and earn some respect because they're not giving us any."
Analysis: For years, the Panthers were known for their stout defensive line. That reputation took a beating last year when they had a franchise-low 23 sacks, and defensive end Julius Peppers was held to a career-low 2 1/2. Peppers has four sacks this year and was dominant in Sunday's 30-7 win against New Orleans. But Peppers, too, thinks not enough attention is being paid to the secondary, which held Drew Brees and the Saints' top-rated passing offense to 231 yards and no touchdowns. "I don't really think they're getting the credit they deserve, because some of the sacks we get come from coverage," Peppers said. "If they cover everybody up, it gives us time to get there. We work hand in hand with those guys and they're doing an excellent job." The Panthers host the Cardinals in Week 8, which figures to be a high-scoring game. They did manage to contain the Saints, but doing it two weeks in-a-row is a tall order. Consider the Panthers DST at best a low-end No. 1 option.
News: The Panthers defense had a surprisingly dominant performance against the visiting Saints in Week 7. It allowed only seven points on 343 yards, picking up one sack and one interception and recovering one fumble.
Analysis: The Panthers DST usually doesn't set the world on fire with sacks and interceptions, but it can have some dominant performance like this one. Of course, knocking Reggie Bush out of the game in the second quarter helped. The Panthers host the Cardinals in Week 8, which figures to be a high-scoring game, so consider benching the Panthers DST you have a decent alternative.
News: The Panthers traveled to Tampa Bay in Week 6 and allowed 27 points and 315 total yards of offense. They did not force a turnover and did not have a sack in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers defense did not produce in any of the areas Fantasy owners want them to produce. For the most part, they've been a very useful Fantasy defense and this matchup against a less than stellar Tampa Bay offense looked promising. But Fantasy owners should consider that they'd allowed under 10 points in back-to-back games coming in and are still an above average Fantasy unit. Use them in any league for Week 7 against New Orleans.
News: With Bucs QB Brian Griese at less than 100 percent after injuring his throwing elbow and shoulder against Denver Week 5, the more mobile Jeff Garcia likely will regain the starting quarterback job he lost after a poor performance in Tampa Bay's season opener. Garcia has beaten the Panthers, Tampa Bay's Week 6 opponent, four straight times, including his only start against them last year in Charlotte. "He's going to present a challenge as far as the secondary goes to stay with our wide receivers a little bit longer than maybe Griese," Panthers cornerback Ken Lucas said, adding that Carolina's defense can play better even better than in its shutout of Kansas City.
Analysis: The Bucs anticipate a smooth transition on offense. In addition to leading them to the playoffs last year and starting the season opener, Garcia came off the bench and played fairly well after Griese was hurt last week. "It's not like I haven't played at all. I've worked with pretty much all of these guys all of last year and a good part of this year," Garcia said. Either way, the Panthers expect to have their hands full. "They are a little bit different," Carolina coach John Fox said. "I don't want to get into those differences, but they are both very qualified. They've started a lot in this league and they are both veteran quarterbacks that have played in the West Coast offense." The Panthers have allowed just nine points in their last two games and are red hot heading into Week 6 against the Bucs. Consider the Panthers DST a viable Fantasy option.
News: The Panthers handed the Kansas City Chiefs their first shutout in nearly six years, 34-0 Week 5. The Chiefs were never in it, and the Panthers again stopped one of the league's top running backs. Larry Johnson, who had rushed for 319 yards in the past two games, had 2 yards on seven carries. That forced Damon Huard to throw -- or at least try to. Huard completed only 10 of 21 passes for 86 yards and two interceptions. He also lost a fumble and the Chiefs didn't pick up their second first down until the Panthers had a 24-0 third-quarter lead. Huard was pulled for Tyler Thigpen early in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: In their first shutout since blanking St. Louis 15-0 in 2006, the Panthers held the Chiefs to 127 yards. The Panthers had three sacks, Jon Beason and Ken Lucas had interceptions and Kansas City failed to score for the first time since losing 24-0 to Oakland in the final game of the 2002 season. The Panthers, who haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher despite facing LaDainian Tomlinson, Matt Forte, Adrian Peterson and Michael Turner, gave Johnson no room to run Week 5. The Panthers have allowed just nine points in their last two games and are red hot heading into Week 6 against the Bucs. Consider the Panthers DST a viable Fantasy option.
News: The Panthers DST held Atlanta to nine points and 268 yards in a Week 4 win over Atlanta. They recorded two sacks, but didn't have an interception or a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Carolina DST started the year slowly but they've been coming along the last few weeks. They have a pretty enticing matchup in Week 5 when they host the Chiefs, so you might want to consider them a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for the period.
News:Ryne Robinson has ditched the brace. The Panthers hope their speedy kick returner will be healthy enough following a knee injury to play in Sunday's game against Atlanta - and help jump-start an offense that has managed four touchdowns in three games. "Anytime you have a setback like we had on July 31 it's devastating, especially for my confidence," Robinson said of being sidelined nearly two months. "I thought I was ready to go for the season and I thought everything was moving along good." Robinson practiced all week, including Friday's abbreviated walkthrough held on the stadium concourse because of heavy rain. Robinson, listed as questionable, has seen his sprained left knee progress to where he ditched his brace and practiced full go this week.
Analysis: Robinson should help improve the special teams production for the Panthers, but don't plan on using him in Week 4 as a WR. The Panthers DST is a great matchup against the Falcons.
News: The Panthers DST had three sacks and one interception Sunday at Minnesota in a 20-10 loss. Chris Gamble had the interception, and Tyler Drayton, Julius Peppers, Charles Godfrey and Charles Johnson combined for the sacks. Mark Jones had five punt returns for 50 yards but lost a fumble, and Jonathan Stewart had five kickoff returns for 199 yards, including a long of 38.
Analysis: The Panthers DST struggled against the Falcons but should be in line for a good outing in Week 4 against the Falcons and rookie QB Matt Ryan. Consider the Panthers a No. 1 Fanatasy option in Week 4.
News: In their Week 2 win vs. Chicago, the Panthers DST had just one sack and two forced fumbles and recoveries. The Bears couldn't pass on them and ran barely effectively.
Analysis: Whole new ball game for the Panthers in Week 3 when they take on the Vikings in Minnesota. This is a good week to rest this DST, finding a better option with a solid matchup instead off the waiver wire.
News: The Panthers defense forced one turnover, a fumble that was returned 31 yards for a score by Chris Gamble, in a 26-24 win Week 1 against the Chargers, but could do little else against San Diego. QB Philip Rivers shred the secondary for three touchdowns and San Diego posted 316 yards against Carolina. They did manage to hold LaDainian Tomlinson to under 100 rushing yards, but not by much (97). Na'il Diggs got the team's lone sack of Rivers.
Analysis: Panthers head coach John Fox is a defensive-minded guy, but the Panthers are coming off a tough season and they didn't exactly have a good defensive showing Week 1. They have the talent to succeed, but need to post better outings before becoming a relibale Fantasy option. Consider the Panthers DST at best a low-end Fantasy option Week 2 against the Bears.
News: In the third week of preseason play, the Panthers DST totaled five sacks and two forced fumbles while holding the Redskins' offense to three points. The Panthers have 10 sacks this preseason (two by Julius Peppers) with five interceptions.
Analysis: If Peppers' play perks up, the Panthers' performance will pump up your Fantasy output. Call them a top-end No. 2 DST worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News: After a week of minor signings, the Panthers made their first significant move in free agency Friday by coming to terms with linebacker Landon Johnson on a three-year deal. Johnson spent the past four seasons in Cincinnati, where he started at all three linebacker spots in the same 4-3 defensive scheme the Panthers use. Johnson racked up 112 and 109 tackles in the past two years. "The city, the team and the coaches all made a tremendous impression on him," sai Andy Simms, Johnson's agent. "It's a tremendous opportunity for him to further his career and get a chance to play where he can help the team."
Analysis: Johnson could unseat Na'il Diggs as Carolina's starter at outside linebacker. In fact, the Panthers LB corps looks to be an area of strength. Jon Beason became the starter at middle linebacker last season and led the team in tackles. Thomas Davis has improved as the starter at the other outside linebacker spot. The Panthers still have several holes to fill, notably on the defensive line and at safety. They remain a No. 2 DST option for 2008.
News: The combination of a poor offense forcing the Panthers defense into poor field position and a down year for DE Julius Peppers and CB Chris Gamble pushed the Panthers DST into Fantasy mediocrity in 2008. Ranking in the middle of the NFL vs. the run and the pass, the Panthers DST totaled a paltry 23 sacks, 14 interceptions, 28 fumble recoveries and just two defensive touchdowns (no special-teams scores).
Analysis: If there's any silver lining, it's that the Panthers weren't downright awful in any category and have plenty of talent to rebuild around. This DST will still garner attention as a sleeper unit in 2008, particularly if someone can find the real Julius Peppers this offseason. Do not expect to spend anything more than a final-round flier pick on them next summer.
News: The Panthers allowed 23 points and 303 yards of total offense in Week 17 at Tampa Bay. They forced one turnover -- an interception -- and had four sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Panthers defense was battered by injuries and overall inefficiency all season and for that reason were not a useful unit in Fantasy play. With Julius Peppers expected to be fully healthy in 2008, there is potential for an improvement next season.
News: The Panthers placed DE Julius Peppers on Injured Reserve Wednesday with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee. The injury forced Peppers to miss Saturday's loss to Dallas, ending his consecutive games streak at 78. Peppers finished with only three sacks in 14 games, ending a streak of three straight years with at least 10 1/2 sacks. He was not elected to the Pro Bowl for the first time since 2003.
Analysis: The Panthers DST shouldn't change much with Peppers out because he wasn't doing much to help them out. They're a decent sleeper option in Week 17 at Tampa Bay since the Bucs will start their backups.
News: Panthers DL Julius Peppers missed his first game of the season Week 16 against the Cowboys because of a knee injury and it showed in the Panthers' defensive effort. Carolina allowed 20 points and 405 total yards. The Cowboys managed 148 yards on the ground, 40 more than the average usually allowed. Carolina did not record a sack and got only one turnover -- an interception.
Analysis: The Panthers are a top 15 defense with Peppers in the lineup and looked pretty sloppy without him Week 16. They couldn't muster up much of a pass rush and Tony Romo pretty much picked them apart. The Panthers DST is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option heading into Week 17 against the Bucs.
News: Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers is doubtful for Saturday's game against Dallas with a sprained right knee. Peppers missed his fourth straight practice Friday, and will likely be replaced by Stanley McClover or rookie Charles Johnson in the lineup against the Cowboys. Peppers, who was injured in Sunday's win over Seattle, has been held to three sacks and had his streak of three straight Pro Bowl selections snapped this week. Safety Chris Harris returned to practice Saturday after missing Friday's workout with a sore hip and is listed as probable to play against Dallas.
Analysis: Peppers hasn't had a strong season to begin with, so the Panthers DST wouldn't be devalued much if he didn't play. As it stands now, the Panthers DST is no better than a low-end No. 2 DST option anyway against the Cowboys.
News: Defensive end Julius Peppers missed practice on Tuesday for the Carolina Panthers. Coach John Fox provided no further injury information on Peppers, except repeating that the defensive end sprained his knee in Sunday's win over Seattle. Peppers was in and out of the game in the second half after getting hurt, and was seen with his right knee wrapped after the game.
Analysis: Peppers hasn't had a strong season to begin with, so the Panthers DST wouldn't be devalued much if he didn't play. As it stands now, the Panthers DST is no better than a low-end No. 2 DST option anyway against the Cowboys.
News: The Panthers allowed 37 points and 427 yards in Week 14 at Jacksonville. They forced just one turnover and did not have any sacks.
Analysis: The Panthers continue to be a very sub-par Fantasy offense and using them at this juncture of the Fantasy season is asking for trouble. Their matchup in Week 15 against a potent Seattle offense doesn't help.
News: The Panthers allowed just 195 yards of offense and 14 points in Week 13 vs. San Francisco. They forced six turnovers in the game, including an interception that was returned for a touchdown and had six sacks.
Analysis: The Panthers took full advantage of their matchup against a poor offense. In Week 14, they'll face a slightly better offense at Jacksonville and starting them would be a bit risky at this late juncture of the Fantasy season.
News: The Panthers allowed 31 points and 373 yards of offense in Week 12 vs. New Orleans. They forced just one turnover and did not have any sacks.
Analysis: The Panthers defense has had little to offer Fantasy owners this season. Leave them on the waiver wire for Week 13 when they face San Francisco.
News: The Carolina Panthers DST gave up 31 points and 317 yards to the Packers in Week 11 and only made one sack. They did not force a turnover.
Analysis: The days of the Panthers being an elite DST unit are over for now. They are not worth using in Week 12 against the Saints unless you have no better option.
News: The Panthers DST will face a tough Packers offense in Green Bay on Sunday in Week 11. The Packers have the sixth-best offense in the NFL, including the top passing offense and the worst rushing offense.
Analysis: The Panthers DST ranks 12th in total defense (14th against the pass and 18th against the run). They have just nine sacks this season, which is the lowest number in the league. Reserve this defense in all formats.
News: The Panthers allowed 20 points and 277 yards of total offense in Week 10 vs. Atlanta. They had two sacks and forced one turnover -- a fumble that DB Ken Lucas returned 27 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Panthers made up for a pedestrian effort against a poor Falcons offense with the touchdown and Fantasy owners that chose to go with Carolina thanks to their favorable matchup likely got a decent result. In Week 11 at Green Bay, sit the Panthers in all leagues. It's a horrible matchup against one of the better offenses in football right now.
News: Carolina hosts Atlanta in an NFC South matchup Sunday in Week 10. The Falcons own the 27th-best offense and they have allowed 26 sacks this year.
Analysis: The Panthers DST ranks just 14th in total defense, but they have been unable to get to the passer, with just seven sacks all year -- easily the worst in the NFL. Still, the Falcons are dismal on offense, so consider this unit in larger leagues for Week 10.
News: The Carolina Panthers DST held Tennessee to only 236 yards and tallied two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery in a 20-7 loss to the Titans in Week 9.
Analysis: When you consider the Panthers had only four sacks on the season coming in, two sacks was a monster outing for them. They might be well worth using in Week 10 against the awful Falcons, but don't rely on them on a weekly basis.
News: Carolina travels to face the Tennessee Titans in Nashville in Week 9 Sunday. The Titans' offense ranks 22nd in the NFL (29th in the passing game and third on the ground).
Analysis: The Panthers DST ranks 21st in total defense (23rd against the pass and 19th against the run). They still only have four sacks this season, which ranks them last in the NFL. They are a better No. 2 DST for this matchup in Fantasy play.
News: The Panthers DST recovered one fumble but had no sacks or interceptions Sunday against the Colts. They had five kickoff returns for 88.8 yards and two punt returns for no yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST should be considered a No. 2 option for Week 9 against the Titans.
News: Carolina has only four sacks this season, which is the lowest number in the NFL through Week 7. They face the high-powered Indianapolis Colts in Week 8 on Sunday.
Analysis: The Panthers DST ranks 19th in total defense (21st against the pass and 18th against the run). You're going to want to sit this unit against Peyton and Friends.
News: The Panthers DST is on a bye week in Week 7. They rank 17th in total defense, including 21st against the pass and 15th against the run.
Analysis: The Panthers DST host the Colts in Week 8, so don't plan on using them in Fantasy play for that week either.
News: The Carolina Panthers DST had three interceptions, two fumble recoveries, two sacks, and allowed only 10 points to the Cardinals in a 25-10 victory over Arizona in Week 6.
Analysis: The Panthers DST were owned in 81 percent of leagues in Week 3, but had performed so poorly over the last few games that their ownership was down to 45 percent coming into Week 6. Expect their owned percentage to rise back up again after their nice outing against the Cardinals, although they clearly benefited greatly from Kurt Warner's injury and they face the Colts in Week 8 after returning from their Week 7 bye.
News: Carolina will travel to Arizona to face the 10th-ranked offense of the Cardinals on Sunday. Arizona will hand the keys to their offense over to Kurt Warner, who has been good when protection has held up, and the Cardinals have allowed only five sacks all season.
Analysis: This could be a tough game for the Panthers DST, who ranks 25th in total defense (24th in the passing game and 18th against the run). This defense still only has two sacks -- neither by Julius Peppers -- and they only have two interceptions all year.
News: The Panthers allowed 13 points on 341 yards at the Saints in Week 5. Their defense picked QB Drew Brees twice but did not record a sack. Their special teams had 45 return yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has plenty of playmakers, but it's struggled anyway, giving up too many yards and registering too few sacks. The Panthers visit the Cardinals in Week 6, who will likely start the highly immobile Kurt Warner at quarterback, but keep their defense reserved regardless.
News: The Panthers DST will travel to New Orleans to face a Saints team that ranks 25th in total offense this season. They have given up only four sacks though, and the Panthers have only two sacks this season.
Analysis: The Panthers DST rank 23rd in total defense, but this could be the week they get on track against a Saints team that can't run or pass just yet. Start them in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: The Panthers gave up 20 points and 365 yards of total offense in Week 5 vs. Tampa Bay. DB Chris Gamble had the team's only interception and LB Thomas Davis recovered a fumble. They did not have a sack.
Analysis: The Panthers have not played up to the level of a No. 1 Fantasy defense this season and are best used as a bye-week replacement. Use them only in larger leagues for Week 5 vs. a struggling Saints offense.
News: Middle linebacker Dan Morgan will not play after suffering an ankle injury against the Falcons. His backup, Adam Seward, returned to practice Friday for the first time in a week following a calf injury and is listed as questionable. James Anderson moved from outside linebacker into Morgan's spot when he went out in the third quarter against Atlanta, and could start there Sunday.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has played like a No. 2 option for much of this season, so keep it reserved for Week 4 against the Buccaneers.
News: The Panthers defense gave up 442 yards at the Falcons in Week 3. They held the Falcons to 20 points, recording one sack and recovering two fumbles. Their special teams gained 46 total return yards.
Analysis: The Panthers seemingly had a great matchup against a Falcons offense that in Weeks 1 and 2 looked virtually inept. However, Harrington and company found their groove at home, leaving the 52 percent of Fantasy owners that started the Panthers DST fairly disappointed. The Panthers DST has played like a No. 2 option this season, so keep it reserved for Week 4 against the Buccaneers.
News: Carolina takes on Atlanta in Week 3 and the Falcons have scored just 10 points on the year. QB Joey Harrington has no touchdowns, two interceptions and 13 sacks so far in 2007 and in the Falcons last four games against the Panthers, they've thrown only three touchdown passes.
Analysis: The Falcons are pretty inept on the offensive side of the ball, and that's being kind. The Panthers DST hasn't exactly got off to a great start this year, but they will be ready to take out their anger on Atlanta. Consider Carolina a top-5 Fantasy DST this week.
News: The Panthers DST had two fumble recoveries Sunday against the Texans. They had no sacks or interceptions. Nick Goings had five kickoff returns for a 20.2-yard average and lost a fumble, and Ryne Robinson had two punt returns for 18 yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST should be considered a good starting option for Week 3 against Atlanta.
News: In a surprise turn of events, the Panthers D throttled the Rams at home in Week 1, holding them to 238 total yards. The Panthers forced a fumble, had one sack and allowed just 13 points.
Analysis: The Panthers' next opponent? The Texans at home. Before you celebrate, know that the Texans offense is much improved (20 points in a convincing win over the Chiefs). Still, consider the Panthers DST a low-end option in Fantasy play, particularly if you're not happy with your current starting DST.
News: When the Panthers visit the Rams on Sunday, they'd love to follow their blueprint from last year's game, reports The Sports Xchange. They sacked Marc Bulger eight times in 2006 while holding the Rams to 31 yards rushing. Carolina ultimately won the game 15-0.
Analysis: Most weeks, the Carolina DST is a solid option. However, any defensive unit heading to play at St. Louis knows they have a rough week ahead. The Rams still have one of the greater shows on turf, if not the greatest. Cage the Panthers this week. They likely won't repeat their somewhat miraculous performance from last year.
News: The Panthers defense should be stout this year, but the Rams offense is no joke. Even with some injuries to St. Louis' wide receivers, the Panthers will struggle to contain Steven Jackson running and Marc Bulger throwing.
Analysis: Most weeks, the Carolina DST is a solid option. However, any defensive unit heading to play at St. Louis knows they are in for a rough week on the turf. If you have another viable DST option, leave the Panthers in their cages in Week 1.
News: Panthers middle linebacker Dan Morgan will play in a game for the first time since suffering at least the fifth concussion of his career on Friday against New England. Morgan, who suffered his first concussion with the Panthers in 2003, had a concussion in the preseason last year, and another one in Carolina's season-opening loss to Atlanta. He sat out the final 15 games, but in January was cleared by doctors to return to football. Morgan increasingly was involved in more contact drills as training camp moved on. He dressed but was held out of the Panthers' first two preseason games. "It's been almost a year now since I've played in a game, so obviously I'm real excited," Morgan said Monday. "I'm going to go out and have fun. This is what I love to do."
Analysis: Morgan shores up the Panthers linebacking corps, but what happens the first time he makes a tackle with his helmet? If he holds up and can play, then Carolina's run defense will definitely be improved. If he gets hurt and misses time, then Carolina's defense will suffer. Be careful considering the Panthers as a starting unit as they have looked shaky in early preseason play. At best, they're a low-end starting option despite their previous successes.
News: Panthers safety Mike Minter said Friday he might retire before the start of the season due to severe knee pain. The 33-year-old Minter, who had previously said 2007 would be his last season, has sat out several practices in training camp. He did not practice Friday morning and said he's been in discussions with team officials about whether his body will hold up. "I wouldn't lie to you all, it's a possibility," Minter said of retiring before the end of training camp. "I'm not going to say I'm leaning that way because I want to do this. But is it a possibility? Yeah, it's a possibility."
Analysis: Minter took a pay cut to play one more season with the team that drafted him in the second round in 1997. Minter is expected to start at free safety alongside Chris Harris, who was acquired from Chicago in a trade on Thursday. But Minter, who has had three knee surgeries, said it's been difficult to practice and he's worried that his body will be unable to last the entire season. Losing Minter may not hurt Carolina's defense since he could be ineffective playing in severe pain. Consider them a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy DST thanks to their expected deficiencies against the run.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that the Panthers sent an undisclosed draft pick to the Bears Thursday for safety Chris Harris. Harris was expendable in Chicago with the club signing Adam Archuleta this offseason.
Analysis: The Panthers were soft at the safety position early on in camp, especially with veteran Mike Minter missing playing time. Harris will help that. This does help Carolina's defense, but not enough to make them anymore than a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy DST thanks to their expected deficiencies against the run.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Panthers LB Na'il Diggs was carted off the practice field on Monday with a right leg injury. Diggs was expected to compete for a starting job in training camp and actually became a valuable part of the defense with top pick LB Jon Beason unsigned.
Analysis: If Diggs is legitimately hurt, the Panthers LB corps will need Beason even more. Already they are considered thin at linebacker because of Dan Morgan's concussion history and a lack of talent after him. Carolina still has DE Julius Peppers, DT Kris Jenkins and DBs Chris Gamble, Ken Lucas and Richard Marshall, so their DST has some value, but not enough to use as a starting option in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: Panthers first-round pick LB Jon Beason was missing as players moved into their dormitory on the Wofford College campus. His agent, Michael Huyghue, flew to Charlotte for face-to-face negotiations with the Panthers, but left without a deal in place. He later said in an e-mail message that the two sides were far apart, meaning it's possible the Panthers will have their first rookie holdout since 2003. Beason is expected to start out at outside linebacker but could move into the middle if veteran Dan Morgan is unable to return from multiple concussions.
Analysis: It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot even though they drafted Beason. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Kris Jenkins, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas.
News: The Gaston Gazette reports that disgruntled DT Kris Jenkins will be in Panthers camp when they open this week. Jenkins sat out the club's offseason minicamps. Jenkins was expected to hold out for a new contract, but with him missing more games in the last three years than games he actually played in, he had no leverage for a new contract.
Analysis: Jenkins' arrival is good news for the Panthers as he's a stout disruptor in the middle of the D-line that the club desperately needs. It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot even though they drafted LB Jon Beason. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas.
News: Panthers DT Kris Jenkins skipped a voluntary team workout, irritating players and coaches a month after the Panthers failed to trade the three-time Pro Bowl selection. Late Wednesday, Jenkins' agent, Tony Paige, said his client wants a new contract, but that was not the reason he was a no-show. "He's just not in position to be there right now," Paige said. "He has kids and business to attend to in Maryland. It's not that big of a deal." Jenkins showed up for a mandatory minicamp a week after the draft. While he appeared to be well over his listed weight, he claimed he had no ill will toward the Panthers. But GM Marty Hurney said Jenkins gave no indication he would miss Wednesday's workout.
Analysis: It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot even though they drafted LB Jon Beason. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas. Losing Jenkins would hurt their defense immensely.
News: According to numerous reports, the Panthers are looking to trade DT Kris Jenkins before the draft, and they may have a suitor in the St. Louis Rams. Panthers executives aren't talking, but the team could land at least a second-round pick as part of a deal for Jenkins.
Analysis: It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas. Losing Jenkins would hurt their defense immensely.
News: The Panthers signed four players Monday, including safety Deke Cooper, and created salary cap space by restructuring safety Mike Minter's contract. Carolina also signed reserve defensive end Dave Ball, cornerback Curtis Deloatch and defensive tackle Chad Lavalais.
Analysis: It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas.
News: The Panthers added depth to their defensive line by signing reserve end Dave Ball and created salary cap space by restructuring safety Mike Minter's contract. Ball's agent Bruce Tollner confirmed the one-year deal Monday. The 26-year-old Ball played in 15 games over the past two seasons with the Jets. Minter's restructuring assures the veteran will return for his 11th season with Carolina. The 33-year-old Minter has started a team record 94 consecutive games, but the Panthers are expected to give younger players more time next season in the secondary.
Analysis: It's been a quiet offseason for Carolina, who happens to greatly lack at the linebacker spot. For now, consider them a top-20 Fantasy DST only because they have Julius Peppers, Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas.
News: The Panthers made their first move of the offseason to clear salary cap space by releasing veteran defensive end Al Wallace on Monday. Wallace was a key reserve in 2006, but was scheduled to count almost $2 million against the salary cap next season. Carolina entered the offseason over the salary cap and must make several more key decisions in the next couple of weeks. Carolina must decide whether to keep several veterans, including linebacker Dan Morgan, who missed all but one game last season due to recurring concussions. Morgan said last month that he has been cleared to play next season, but is due a $2 million roster bonus.
Analysis: Losing Wallace doesn't hurt the Panthers much, but dropping Morgan would be significant, especially since Carolina is weak at linebacker to begin with. Keep an eye on this situation, and consider the Panthers defense a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit (they do have Julius Peppers and Chris Gamble, after all).
News: The Panthers defense totaled five sacks, an interception and three forced fumbles at New Orleans in Week 17.
Analysis: The Panthers defense should rebound and be a low-end option as a defensive unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The Panthers DST held the Falcons to three points with three sacks and two interceptions. DL Julius Pepper had two sacks and two tackles. LB Chris Draft had four tackles and a sack. DB Shaun Williams had seven tackles and an interception. DB Ken Lucas had four tackles and an interception. DB Richard Marshall had two tackles.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has been banged up this year with injuries and should be considered a No. 2 option for Week 17 against the Saints. Use all regular IDP players as needed.
News: Ever since coach John Fox took over the Carolina Panthers, they've had a knack for creating turnovers. Except for this season. After leading the NFC with 42 takeaways in 2005, the Panthers have just 18 this year, and none in the past three games. It's another reason why the Panthers (6-8) are one of the NFL's biggest disappointments. "It's been that kind of year. It's been as frustrating as I've ever been associated with and I'm sure for the fans and I know for the players," Fox said. "Sometimes, the ball just doesn't bounce (your way)."
Analysis: It didn't used to be that way. The Panthers have forced 157 turnovers in Fox's five seasons. Only Baltimore (166) has more during that span. When the Panthers reached the NFC championship game last year, they were buoyed by a plus-16 turnover ratio. This season, Carolina's minus-9 turnover ratio is fifth-worst in the NFL. In the Panthers' eight losses, they've forced a total of three turnovers. The Panthers play the Falcons Week 16 and the Falcons have only turned the ball over 17 times this season -- tied for second-best mark in the league. The Panthers DST should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 16.
News: Panthers all-time sacks leader Mike Rucker will miss the rest of the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Rucker suffered the season-ending injury late in the first quarter of Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh, moments after being credited with a half sack that raised his career total with the team to 52.5. "It was kind of a fluke thing where the tight end bumped into one of our players and his knee got tangled in that," coach John Fox said Monday. Recovery from a torn ACL can take up to a year, and the 31-year-old Rucker is due a $2.5 million roster bonus in March, making it possible Rucker has played his last game with the Panthers. Fox declined to discuss Rucker's future with the team. "He's definitely a champion guy," Fox added. "We'll miss him, not only as a player, but a guy who has been out there for the good and the bad. It's somebody we lean on."
Analysis: Rucker should be cut immediately in all IDP leagues. The Panthers DST could lose some sack production without Rucker, but they should be considered a No. 2 option for Week 16 against Atlanta.
News: The Panthers defense totaled three sacks vs. Pittsburgh in Week 15. They did a decent job holding down the Pittsburgh pass game but suffered against the run and allowed a total of 37 points.
Analysis: The Panthers defense is at best a low-end option at Atlanta in Week 16.
News: Panthers DE Mike Rucker left Sunday's game against the Steelers with an apparent knee injury. Rucker was injured in the first quarter when he ran into another Panther player during a pass-rush and his knee appeared to buckle under him. He was helped off the field and taken to the locker room on a cart. His return was questionable. Al Wallace replaced him on the field.
Analysis: The Panthers defense should remain decent without him, though their sack production could be slimmed.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Panthers CB Chris Gamble (thigh) and CB Ken Lucas (hamstring) did not practice on Wednesday in preparation for Week 15 vs. Pittsburgh. Both missed last week's game against the Giants.
Analysis: The Panthers defense will get burned through the air if they don't play. Consider them a low-end defensive option against a rested and angry Steelers offense in Week 15.
News: The Panthers allowed 27 points and 307 yards of offense in Week 14 vs. the N.Y. Giants. They could not force any turnovers and did not sack QB Eli Manning once.
Analysis: The Panthers had little t offer Fantasy owners this week, but they'll look to bounce back in Week 15 vs. Pittsburgh.
News: Panthers CB Chris Gamble was added to the injury report on Friday with a thigh tweak he incurred in practice. He is questionable to play vs. the Giants in Week 14.
Analysis: Gamble certainly helps the Panthers defense out as he's one of the better cornerbacks in the league. Consider the Panthers D a low-end Fantasy option for Week 14.
News: The Carolina Panthers DST allowed 27 points and 402 total net yards in Week 13 at Philadelphia. They also had just one sack, no interceptions and no fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Panthers DST will look for much better results in Week 14 against the Giants, but they are only worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy unit at this point of the season.
News: The Carolina Panthers declared OG D'Anthony Batiste, WR Taye Biddle, OT Rashad Butler, CB Dion Byrum, WR Keary Colbert, DE Stanley McClover and S Nate Salley inactive for Week 13 at Philadelphia.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are worth using in any Fantasy leagues.
News: The Panthers DST only had one sack and one interception in a 17-13 loss against Washington. DB Chris Draft had seven tackles and a sack. LB Thomas Davis had seven tackles. DB Richard Marshall had four tackles and an interception. DL Julius Peppers had three tackles. DB Chris Gamble had one tackle. DL Mike Rucker had three tackles. DL Kris Jenkins had four tackles.
Analysis: Consider the Panthers a No. 2 DST for Week 13 against the Eagles and use all IDP players as needed.
News: Carolina DB Ken Lucas (hamstring) returned to practice Friday after sitting out Thursday's workout. He remains questionable for Sunday's game at Washington.
Analysis: Consider Lucas a No. 3 DB in IDP leagues at best. It appears he will play Sunday vs. the Redskins.
News: Coach John Fox has seem some bad films on Monday mornings this season. The latest tape is headed to his classics library, though. The Panthers held the Rams to 111 yards and had a team record-tying seven sacks in handing St. Louis its first shutout since 1998. The Panthers (6-4) have allowed 10 points in two games and moved into a first-place tie with New Orleans in the NFC South. "I think it was as good of team defense as we've played this year," Fox said after reviewing the defensive film of the Panthers' 15-0 win over St. Louis. "There were times where the coverage made the quarterback hold the ball and it bought time for the rush. There were times when the rush broke free and might have covered up some problems in the coverage. ... It was definitely our best tackling game."
Analysis: The Panthers play at Washington in Week 12 and should be fierce against a Redskins offense with Jason Campbell and Ladell Betts at quarterback and running back, respectively. Expect a strong game from the Panthers in Week 12 -- start them if you own them.
News: The Panthers allowed just 111 net yards of offense and held the Rams scoreless in Week 11. They forced two turnovers and also picked up a safety in a 15-0 win.
Analysis: The Panthers were completely suffocating in the win and looked like the unit that many believed would be a top DST all season. Start them in all leagues for Week 12 at Washington.
News: The Carolina Panthers defense allowed 10 points and 222 total net yards in Week 10 against the Buccaneers. They also had three sacks, two interceptions and a pair of fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Panthers defense will have their hands full trying to contain QB Marc Bulger, RB Steven Jackson and WR Torry Holt in Week 11 when the Rams pull into Charlotte. They're still a solid start in most Fantasy leagues unless your other option has a more favorable matchup.
News: The Carolina Panthers announced OG D'Anthony Batiste, OL Rashad Butler, DL Jordan Carstens (chest), C Justin Hartwig, LB Brandon Jamison, DL Stanley McClover, RB Eric Shelton and DB Nate Salley are inactive for Week 10 against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned are worthy of any Fantasy consideration for Week 11 against the Rams.
News: The Panthers haven't exactly been torched this season against the pass, holding the opposition under 225 yards passing in all but two of their games. But Carolina is lacking in the big-play category and it isn't generating the turnovers as it had in past seasons. In their four losses, the Panthers have given up more than 150 rush yards per game. Julius Peppers has played great, but teams are scheming to run away from him and put pressure on Carolina's linebackers; Na'il Diggs and Thomas Davis have been disappointments.
Analysis: Consider the Carolina defense a low-end option for the rest of the Fantasy season. The potential is there for them to be ferocious, but the fact remains that they're giving up a lot of points and not stopping the run. They are worth starting in Week 10 vs. Tampa Bay, however.
News: PR/DB Chris Gamble will likely get the job back of returning punts now that WR Steve Smith said he won't return punts.
Analysis: There has still been no official word of what the Panthers plan to do after their bye week, but expect Smith to be done as the team's punt returner after blasting the coaching staff for their decision to use him in that role against the Cowboys. Smith is still a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for what he does on offense. The Panthers DST is still valuable despite Smith not returning punts. And Gamble is still one of the best cornerbacks in IDP leagues.
News: Panthers WR Steve Smith returned punts for the first time this season on Sunday against Dallas. He replaced Chris Gamble as the punt returner in the second half. Smith had an 16-yard return and fumbled a return inside the Panthers' 5, which teammate Richard Marshall recovered. Gamble entered the game averaging only 5.3 yards on punt returns, which ranked 30th in the NFL. His lone first-half return was for 6 yards.
Analysis: Smith owners would prefer he stick to playing WR and avoid getting hurt, but Panthers DST owners are excited that Smith is now returning punts. He improved the Panthers chances of running back touchdowns extremely.
News: Cowboys QB Tony Romo wasn't expected to be able to run the offense up and down the field against the Panthers in Week 8, but that is exactly what he did on his way to a 35-14 win in his first career start. The Cowboys totaled 414 yards and put up 35 points. The Panthers defense had a few lone bright spots that included two sacks (DLs Kris Jenkins and Mike Rucker) and one interception (DB Chris Gamble). Also, DB Mike Minter racked up a game-high 15 tackles.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is usually a strong Fantasy option, but even the best defenses have a bad week here and there. The Panthers DST is on a bye in Week 9, but return to action in Week 10 against the Bucs. Consider using the Panthers DST when they return from their off week. Minter and Gamble are solid Fantasy players in IDP leagues. Whereas, Jenkins and Rucker are low-end options along the defensive line.
News: The Panthers DST gave up 17 points against the Bengals with no turnovers and only two sacks. DL Julius Peppers had four tackles and no sacks. LB Chris Draft had six tackles and one sack. DL Damione Lewis had two tackles and one sack. DB Ken Lucas had eight tackles. And DB Chris Gamble had seven tackles.
Analysis: Consider the Panthers DST a low-end No. 1 option in Week 8 against Dallas. Start all these players in IDP leagues.
News: James Anderson has a lot on his mind this week as he prepares to perhaps make his first NFL start on Sunday when the Panthers visit Cincinnati. Starting outside linebacker Thomas Davis has a rib injury and is listed as questionable, though he did practice Friday for the first time this week. "It's a big opportunity just to get the chance to go out there and play," said Anderson, who played most of the second half last Sunday in Baltimore after Davis went down. "It's unfortunate that it had to happen like this. Hopefully (Davis) is still going to come in and play, but it's a big opportunity for me."
Analysis: Even if Anderson gets the start, we won't recommend him outside of the deepest IDP formats for Week 7 at Cincinnati. The Panthers DST will have a tough time with the Bengals high-powered offense, but still make a nice start in leagues of 12-plus teams due to their ability to get to the QB and create turnovers.
News: Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers is drawing rave reviews from just about everyone with many saying he is having an MVP-type season. It's easy to see why. Through eight games, Carolina's two-time Pro Bowl defensive end has a league-high eight sacks and 16 quarterback pressures along with three forced fumbles and has been incredibly dominant in five of the six games he's played. "I haven't seen one person who has dominated games the way he has," said fellow defensive end Al Wallace. "He's been a one-man wrecking machine at defensive end."
Analysis: Shame on the 1 percent of Fantasy IDP leagues that still have Peppers on the waiver wire. It is an insult to see him owned in just 99 percent of Fantasy leagues. This guy is a bonafide IDP stud and should be started no matter the matchup. He even makes the Panthers DST a great Fantasy option. The Panthers have a difficult matchup in Week 7 against Cincinnati but it's hard to reserve them or Peppers at this point. Consider the Panthers a low-end No. 1 DST.
News: Thomas Davis and Al Wallace missed practice for the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday and are listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Cincinnati. Davis, a starting linebacker, suffered a rib injury against Baltimore while Wallace, a reserve defensive end, injured his arm against the Ravens. Safety Shaun Williams practiced Wednesday and is listed as questionable for a right foot injury.
Analysis: Carolina's defense will be in for a big challenge against the Bengals in Week 7, so consider benching them if you have a better option on your bench (or on the waiver wire). If not, don't worry too much as the Panthers defense should register some sacks and a turnover or two.
News: The Panthers DST had three sacks, two interceptions and one fumble recovery against Baltimore. DL Julius Peppers had eight tackles and two sacks. LB Chris Draft had seven tackles, one sack and a fumble recovery. DB Colin Branch had three tackles and an interception. DB Richard Marshall also had an interception.
Analysis: The Panthers have a difficult matchup in Week 7 against Cincinnati but it's hard to reserve them at this point. Consider them a low-end No. 1 DST.
News: Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan will miss the rest of the season as he struggles to recover from at least the fifth concussion of his career. Morgan was injured after his head hit the turf in the season-opening loss to Atlanta and hadn't played or practiced since. He has met with several specialists. "He did meet with the medical people and they felt it was in his best interest not to play the remainder of the season," coach John Fox said Wednesday. Chris Draft will continue to start in Morgan's place at middle linebacker.
Analysis: The Panthers defense remains a quality unit so long as they're not playing one of the top offensive teams in the NFL. Definitely use them in Week 6 at Baltimore.
News: The Carolina defense allowed 12 points and 248 total net yards in Week 5 against the Browns. They did not allow an offensive touchdown while registering two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Panthers are a solid Fantasy defense for Week 6 against QB Steve McNair and the Ravens in Baltimore.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Panthers safety Shaun Williams (foot) was back at practice on Wednesday. No word was given on if he would play in Week 5 vs. Cleveland. The paper also said that LB Dan Morgan (concussion) would not play in the upcoming game.
Analysis: Hosting the Browns may result in a win for the Panthers, but not necessarily a stout defensive effort. Still, expect some turnovers, making them a starting option in Week 5 Fantasy play.
News: Carolina linebacker Dan Morgan is not considering retirement despite a history of concussions, the latest of which has cost him three games so far this season. Morgan has not played since having what's believed to be his fifth concussion early in the Panthers' Sept. 10 season-opening loss to Atlanta. Coach John Fox has been coy on his status since, but said for the first time Monday that Morgan intends to return to the field. "He wants to play again," Fox said. "He's not talking about walking away from it. Those are his feelings."
Analysis: Fox is traditionally tightlipped when it comes to discussing injuries, and his reluctance to provide any insight on Morgan's condition prompted speculation the former first-round draft pick might walk away from the NFL. Although Morgan has continued to attend team meetings and was on the sideline for Sunday's win over New Orleans, he has not spoken to reporters since he was injured. When pressed whether Morgan's history of concussions is concerning the team, Fox said the linebacker simply needs time to heal from this one and isn't scared to play again. Morgan has missed 28 games because of injuries since entering the NFL in 2001. He had two concussions in 2003, two more in 2004 and at least one this year. The Panthers DST welcomes the Browns to their home in Week 5. Though the Browns have done well offensively, this could be a real statement game for the Panthers, who will look to improve to 3-2. Use the Panthers defense in your Fantasy lineup once again.
News: The Panthers defense had a sack and a fumble recovery in Week 4 vs. New Orleans, though they did allow just 18 points.
Analysis: Carolina welcomes the Browns to their home in Week 5. Though the Browns have done well offensively, this could be a real statement game for the Panthers, who will look to improve to 3-2. Use the Panthers defense in your Fantasy game.
News: Notable inactives for the Panthers in Week 4 include: RB Eric Shelton, SS Shaun Williams, LB Dan Morgan, DE Stanley McClover and TE Mike Seidman. In addition TE Kris Mangum is starting for the Panthers and Colin Branch will play in place of Shaun Williams.
Analysis: When healthy, Williams and Morgan are good Fantasy options in leagues that use individual defenders. None of the other players mentioned are quality Fantasy options at this time. The loss of Williams and Morgan will hamper the Panthers defense, but they are still usable against the Saints.
News: Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan won't play Sunday against New Orleans. Morgan hasn't played since suffering at least the fifth concussion of his career in the season opener against Atlanta. Coach John Fox said there is no target date for Morgan's return. "He seems to be doing fine," Fox said. "He's working out. He's in meetings. He's doing everything that all the other guys are doing." Also, safety Shaun Williams rode a stationary bike and did some agility drills. He missed the Tampa Bay game with a right foot injury and also is questionable for New Orleans.
Analysis: Morgan's absence hurts the Panthers' linebacking unit, and Williams provides a good starting safety opposite Mike Minter for the Cats. The Panthers have an OK matchup in Week 4 vs. New Orleans and are a low-end Fantasy option as a defensive unit.
News: The Panthers defense had one sack and one interception at Tampa Bay in Week 3, holding the Bucs to 24 points on 64 rush yards and 155 pass yards. The Bucs did have some points off turnovers by the Carolina offense.
Analysis: The Panthers will have their hands full with the Saints in Week 4 at home, but if they're healthier for that game than they were for this game, it could be another nice outing. Consider keeping them active for Week 4 Fantasy play.
9/20/2006
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Panthers D still depleted
News: Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan will not play against the Buccaneers, the second straight game he'll miss since suffering a concussion in the opening loss to Atlanta. Also, safety Shaun Williams, who injured his right foot last Sunday against Minnesota, did not practice and is doubtful. If Williams can't play, Colin Branch would likely replace him at strong safety. Cornerback Ken Lucas (neck) did not practice and was listed as questionable as well.
Analysis: Carolina's weakness seems to be at linebacker right now with Morgan and Na'il Diggs hobbling. That may bode well for the Buccaneers, who have been horrible offensively, but are looking to break out of their funk. There are not a lot of good DST matchups in Week 3, so if you own the Panthers defense with no quality backup, roll with them this Sunday.
9/17/2006
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Peppers, Panthers D do well
News: The Panthers defense allowed 16 points at Minnesota in Week 2, but did sack Brad Johnson five times, intercepting him once.
Analysis: Carolina should be licking their chops as they play at Tampa Bay in Week 3. Chris Simms has thrown six interceptions in two games and the Panthers should be able to pressure him in the game. Continue to start the Panthers defense with confidence despite their 0-2 start.
9/10/2006
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Panthers defense looks tame
News: In their Week 1 game vs. Atlanta, the Panthers defense allowed 20 points, a 100-yard rusher and had one sack of Michael Vick (it went to Damione Lewis). The Panthers did not force a fumble or pick off Vick. DB Shaun Williams led the Panthers with 10 tackles (eight solo), Chris Gamble had seven tackles (five solo) and Julius Peppers registered three solo hits. The Panthers also lost middle linebacker Dan Morgan with a concussion early in the second quarter. Adam Seward replaced Morgan, who has a history of concussions.
Analysis: Carolina's DST really took the day off, but could be up to the task at Minnesota in Week 2. Damione Lewis isn't expected to be a significant Fantasy option. Shaun Williams may pan out to be a decent sleeper while Chris Gamble and Julius Peppers should remain starters in IDP leagues. As for Morgan, owners should monitor his status before activating him for Week 2. play.
9/10/2006
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LB Morgan shaken up in Week 1
News: The Panthers lost linebacker Dan Morgan in their Week 1 game vs. Atlanta. Morgan was shaken up in the second quarter, and his return was also questionable. He was taken out of the game and spent several minutes on the bench talking with a trainer. The oft-injured Morgan has missed 25 of 90 games in his five-year career.
Analysis: This is one of the concerns with owning Morgan -- he is very injury prone. Expect some seven-to-10 tackle performances this season, when healthy.
9/6/2006
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Panthers DST ready to pounce
News: Defensively, the Panthers boast arguably the best line in all of football with Ma'ake Kemoeatu and Kris Jenkins on the inside and Mike Rucker and Julius Peppers on the outside. Opposing teams can't double everyone, so somebody on that line is going to get one-on-one matchups. In short, "teams are going to have to pick their poison," said defensive line coach Sal Sunseri. Under defensive coordinator and prospective NFL coach Mike Trgovac, the Panthers defense is always among the league leaders in takeaways. The Panthers led the league in takeaways last season and with added pressure on opposing quarterbacks this season, that number could increase this year.
Analysis: Obviously, the Panthers DST is considered one of the best -- if not the best -- in the NFL. They should start every week regardless of their opponent; as for Week 1, they held Atlanta to 17 points over two games last season, and they have the speed to handle Michael Vick's legs. Owners should trust in this defense for Week 1, and every week.
8/25/2006
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Panthers OLB has knee sprain
News: Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Na'il Diggs sprained his right knee against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night. The injury was not as serious as first thought, the team said Friday. He had an MRI test and is listed as day-to-day.
Analysis: Diggs missed seven games last season with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his knee. The former Ohio State standout adds depth to the Carolina linebackers, but does not decrease or increase the overall Fantasy value of the Panthers DST.
News: Na'il Diggs, who was on crutches and wearing a knee brace after Thursday's preseason game against the Dolphins, said he would undergo an MRI on Friday. "I got tripped up and caught up with some other players and it just got twisted up," said Diggs. "It feels different this time. Hopefully it's not as bad."
Analysis: Diggs missed seven games last season with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his knee. The former Ohio State standout adds depth to the Carolina linebackers, but does not decrease or increase the overall Fantasy value of the Panthers DST.
8/14/2006
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DT Kris Jenkins glad to be back
News: Panthers.com reports that DT Kris Jenkins made his return to Carolina's defense Saturday against the Bills in a preseason game. "I think we played aggressive and we played hard. It was a Carolina defense," he said. "I am just glad to be back out there. I have had two years off. I was nervous because it has been a while but I only know one speed and it picks up quick. Hopefully by the end of preseason, I will be back to my true self."
Analysis: Jenkins had a shoulder injury in 2004 and a torn ACL last season, so these aren't necessarily recurring injuries, but definite signs of wear and tear on an aging defensive rock. The Panthers DST remains one of the top three Fantasy units with or without Jenkins, but his presence would help their attack.
5/8/2006
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Davis changes positions, number
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Thomas Davis has switched his number from No. 47 to No. 58 after his move from safety to linebacker. It used to be the number of former Carolina LB LB Mark Fields. "We still consider Mark part of the team around here," said Davis. "So I had to go through him and ask him if it was OK for me to wear this jersey."
Analysis: Davis is slated to start on the weak side with Dan Morgan in the middle and either Keith Adams or Na'il Diggs on the strong side. Overall, the Panthers defense will be one of the first units selected in all drafts.
3/2/2006
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Carolina releases Brentson Buckner
News: The Carolina Panthers have released Brentson Buckner.
Analysis: Buckner, 34, recorded a mere one sack in 2005.
1/17/2006
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Panthers DST to face 'Hawks
News: The Carolina Panthers head to Seattle to face the Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. The Panthers DST recorded one sack, one interception and allowed 21 points in last weekend's 29-21 win over Chicago.
Analysis: The Panthers DST should be considered a solid option in postseason leagues.
1/10/2006
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Panthers DST to face Bears
News: The Carolina Panthers head to Soldier Field to face the NFC North champion Chicago Bears in Sunday's Divisional Round. The Panthers defense allowed 258 total yards and 13 points against the Bears back on Nov. 20.
Analysis: This NFC battle should be a low-scoring affair, so look for the Panthers DST to produce nice totals for owners in postseason leagues.
1/3/2006
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Carolina travels to Meadowlands
News: The Carolina Panthers travel to the Meadowlands to face the N.Y. Giants on Wild Card weekend.
Analysis: The Panthers DST finished the regular season on a high note and should be considered a nice option in postseason leagues.
12/24/2005
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Panthers DST allows 24 points
News: The Panthers DST allowed 24 points and recorded five sacks and one interception in Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Analysis: The Panthers DST should be considered a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 17 at Atlanta.
12/18/2005
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Panthers get six turnovers
News: The Panthers allowed only 10 points and 277 yards in Week 15 at New Orleans. They also intercepted four passes and and forced two fumbles.
Analysis: The Panthers will look to keep their solid play going when they face Dallas in Week 16.
12/15/2005
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LB Morgan, CB Lucas probable
News: LB Dan Morgan (ankle) and CB Ken Lucas (shoulder) are both listed as probable for Week 14 at New Orleans. DE Mike Rucker (ankle) is questionable.
Analysis: Despite these ailments, the Panthers DST remains a nice option against a Saints team that has bench Aaron Brooks in favor of Todd Bouman.
12/11/2005
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Panthers hold Bucs to 133 yds
News: The Carolina Panthers allowed only 133 yards of net offenisive yards in Week 15 vs. Tampa Bay. They gave up 20 points and did not force a turnover.
Analysis: The Panthers DST will face New Orleans in what will be a decent matchup for them defensively.
12/11/2005
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Mike Rucker inactive
News: Mike Rucker (ankle) was listed as inactive for Week 14 on Buccaneers.com.
Analysis: LB Dan Morgan and DE Julius Peppers are both active.
12/10/2005
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Peppers and Morgan now probable
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Julius Peppers (ankle) and Dan Morgan (ankle) practiced on Friday and were both upgraded to probable for Week 14.
Analysis: Morgan and Peppers are excellent IDP options when healthy. The Panthers DST will face the Buccaneers in Week 14.
12/9/2005
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Peppers returns to practice
News: The Observer reports DE Julius Peppers (ankle, questionable) returned to practice Thursday.
Analysis: Peppers should be active in what is an important NFC South battle, but owners should still keep tabs on his status throughout the weekend. The Panthers DST remains a nice option in most leagues.
12/8/2005
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Morgan returns to work
News: Panthers.com reports Dan Morgan (ankle, questionable) returned to practice on Thursday. "He should be ready this week," head coach John Fox said. In other news, DEs Julius Peppers (ankle) and Mike Rucker (ankle) missed practice.
Analysis: Peppers, Rucker and Morgan should all be active in what is an important NFC South battle against Tampa Bay. The Panthers DST remains a nice option in most leagues.
12/8/2005
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Dan Morgan questionable
News: LB Dan Morgan (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 14 against Tampa Bay. He did not participate in "team" practice on Wednesday. DE Julius Peppers (ankle), DE Mike Rucker (ankle) and S Idrees Bashir (hamstring) are also questionable.
Analysis: Peppers, Rucker and Morgan should all be active in what is an important NFC South battle against Tampa Bay. The Panthers DST remains a nice option in most leagues.
12/7/2005
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Panthers DST banged up
News: Dan Morgan (ankle), Julius Peppers (ankle) and Mike Rucker (ankle) are all questionable for Week 14 vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is still a strong play in Week 14.
12/4/2005
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Panthers corral Mike Vick
News: The Panthers DST had five sacks, two interceptions and held the Falcons to six total points in Week 13. They even held them to 120 total yards.
Analysis: The Panthers DST should go again vs. Tampa Bay in Week 14. Definitely start them.
12/1/2005
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Morgan listed as questionable
News: Dan Morgan (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 13 against Atlanta. Chris Draft would start in his absence. Also, S Idrees Bashir (thigh) is questionable.
Analysis: The Panthers DST remains a nice option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
12/1/2005
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Morgan listed as questionable
News: Dan Morgan (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 13 against Atlanta. Chris Draft would start in his absence. Also, S Idrees Bashir (thight) is questionable.
Analysis: The Panthers DST remains a nice option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
11/27/2005
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Panthers hold Bills to nine
News: The Panthers DST held the Bills to nine points in Week 12, racking up an interception and four sacks. They also held RB Willis McGahee to 53 yards.
Analysis: Carolina's defense is certainly peaking. They will be in for a big challenge vs. Atlanta in Week 13.
11/20/2005
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Panthers D can't slow Bears
News: The Panthers DST could only come up with an interception at Chicago in Week 11, holding the team to 13 total points (and one touchdown). In the game, linebacker Dan Morgan sprained his ankle and could miss some time.
Analysis: Carolina's DST has a better shot at dominating at Buffalo in Week 12.
11/20/2005
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LB Morgan leaves game
News: Panthers LB Dan Morgan (left leg) was helped off the field at Chicago in Week 11.
Analysis: His return is questionable.
11/13/2005
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Panthers DST dominates
News: The Panthers DST held the N.Y. Jets to only three points in Week 10, while registering three sacks and four INTs. Will Witherspoon returned one of the INTs for a 35-yard touchdown.
Analysis: Too bad the Panthers DST can't face Brooks Bollinger every week. That said, the unit is a solid play in Week 11 at Chicago.
11/6/2005
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Panthers DST scores TD
News: The Panthers DST allowed 14 points, scored a touchdown (CB Chris Gamble) and recorded five sacks, two interceptions and forced two fumbles in Sunday's 34-14 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 10 against the N.Y. Jets.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that DE Julius Peppers (broken right hand) is healing rapidly. The cast on his hand has been shortened. "The hand is getting better; I'm using it a lot more," he said. "I should be able to do a little bit more this week than I did last week as far as my pain threshold." He was able to practice Thursday. Mike Rucker (illness) was also able to practice Thursday.
Analysis: Peppers remains one of the top defensive linemen in IDP leagues and his presence helps the Panthers DST remain a top Fantasy unit. Rucker is also a decent starter in leagues that reward sacks heavily. Start them in Week 9 at Tampa Bay.
11/3/2005
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DE Mike Rucker probable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that DE Rucker (illness) missed practice Wednesday, but he remains probable on the injury report for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Rucker leads the Panthers with four sacks and 21 QB pressures. When healthy, he is a decent IDP starter in Fantasy play. The Panthers DST is also a good start against a struggling Bucs offense.
10/30/2005
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Panthers DST allows 13 points
News: The Carolina defense allowed 13 points and 253 total net yards in Week 8 against Minnesota while recording four sacks.
Analysis: On the injury front, DL Julius Peppers (hands) was able to play and make two tackles and RB/KR Rod Smart (groin) was able to make a tackle on special teams and return a kick. The Panthers are a decent Fantasy option in Week 9 when they travel to Tampa Bay.
10/16/2005
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Panthers DST records five sacks
News: The Panthers DST allowed 20 points and recorded five sacks and one interception in Sunday's 21-20 win over the Detroit Lions.
Analysis: The Carolina Panthers have a bye in Week 7, so keep their DST reserved.
10/14/2005
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Smith likely to return kicks
News: Running back Rod Smart is doubtful for Sunday's game. In other injury news, cornerback Chris Gamble, who tried to play last week on a bad ankle but was benched at halftime, returned to the practice field Thursday and probably will play this week. He too is listed as questionable.
Analysis: Steve Smith is likely going to be the fill-in return man for the Panthers, which means they still have a potential game-breaker on the ST unit. Whether or not Gamble plays should not affect the Panthers' Fantasy value against a struggling Lions passing game.
10/13/2005
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Panthers' Gamble questionable
News: LB Vinny Ciurciu (knee) and CB Chris Gamble (ankle) are listed as questionable for Week 6 at Detroit.
Analysis: Gamble is usually worth starting as a No. 3 or 4 DB in IDP leagues, but Ciurciu has no value. The Panthers DST remains a decent start in Fantasy play, especially against this troubled Lions offense.
10/10/2005
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CB Gamble plays on bad ankle
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that CB Gamble started despite a sore left ankle, but he left Sunday's game near the end of the first half. Gamble expects to be 100 percent Sunday at Detroit.
Analysis: Gamble's exit from the lineup actually helped Carolina get better coverage on the Arizona receivers. After reaching the 100-yard mark in the first half, WR Larry Fitzgerald caught three passes for only 30 yards after the break. Detroit's receiving corps is pretty banged up too, so expect Carolina's DST to take a step forward against a bad Lions offense.
10/10/2005
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Panthers DST allows 20 points
News: The Carolina defense allowed 20 points and 464 total net yards in Week 5 at Arizona. They also had a sack, three interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Panthers will look for better results when they meet Joey Harrington and the Lions at Ford Field in Week 6.
10/5/2005
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Panthers D should only get better
News: The Panthers defense collapsed Monday night allowing Brett Favre to throw for 303 yards and four touchdowns. Carolina's cover-two zone really had some collapses and defensive end Julius Peppers continues to remain invisible with no sacks. The Panthers did force two Favre turnovers -- a fumble and an interception -- leading to 14 points early in the game.
Analysis: LB Dan Morgan (groin) and his backup Adam Seward (ankle) are day to day this week, but the Panthers remain a solid Fantasy DST. A game vs. backup QB Josh McCown in Arizona could prove bountiful in the area of sacks, turnovers and TDs. The 49ers had a pair of defensive TDs off fumbles vs. Arizona in Week 4.
10/4/2005
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Panthers DST torched by Pack
News: The Carolina defense allowed 29 points and 352 total net yards in Week 4 against Green Bay. They recorded one sack, an interception and a forced fumble.
Analysis: The Panthers did a great job against the run, but they had a difficult time containing Brett Favre who caught fire in the second half and nearly engineered a classic comeback. The Panthers should have a lot more success in Week 5 at Arizona.
9/25/2005
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Miami hurts Panthers defense
News: Carolina's defense was held sackless, picking off Gus Frerotte once in a 27-24 loss at Miami in Week 3. They also allowed rookie RB Ronnie Brown to rush for 132 yards.
Analysis: Getting manhandled by a poor offensive line is not a good sign. However, they were without several of their starters. They will be in for a fight vs. Green Bay in Week 4, where they will give up some points but also get some turnovers.
9/22/2005
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Panthers D banged up
News: Lots of Carolina's defenders are hurt as the team prepares for a Week 3 battle at Miami. Safety Mike Minter (calf), LB Will Witherspoon (knee) and CB Ken Lucas (shoulder) are questionable while LB Dan Morgan (back), DT Jordan Carstens (ankle) and DT Brentson Buckner (knee) are probable.
Analysis: The DST is still a recommended start in Week 3.
9/18/2005
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Panthers allow 17 points
News: The Panthers DST allowed 17 points with two sacks and one interception in Sunday's win over the New England Patriots.
Analysis: The Panthers DST remains one of the leagues better units and should be active in Week 3 at Miami.
9/12/2005
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DT Jenkins out for the season
News: Coming off their Week 1 loss vs. New Orleans, Panthers DT Kris Jenkins is lost for the season with a torn ACL, head coach John Fox announced. He will miss the rest of the season. The Carolina defense did OK in stopping Aaron Brooks (192 passing yards) and the Saints run game (101 yards) in Week 1, but still didn't create any turnovers except for two fumble recoveries. Even more startling, the Panthers did not have a sack or an interception.
Analysis: The Panthers will miss Jenkins in the trenches when they face a tough challenge in the Patriots at home in Week 2. There might be a better matchup to play instead next week, so think long and hard about making a one-week switch.
9/11/2005
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Panthers D can't halt NO
News: The Carolina defense did OK in stopping Aaron Brooks (192 passing yards) and the Saints run game (101 yards), but still didn't create any turnovers except for two fumble recoveries. Even more startling, the Panthers did not have a sack or an interception.
Analysis: Carolina could encounter similar problems in Week 2 vs. New England. There might be a better matchup to play instead.
9/9/2005
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Peppers upgraded to probable
News: The Observer reports Julius Peppers (foot) has been upgraded to probable for Week 1.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a must-start option at home against New Orleans.
9/8/2005
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Peppers back to 100 percent
News: The Observer reports DE Julius Peppers (foot) said he will play in Week 1. "Right now, I'm 100 percent," Peppers said. "It's a little sore, but it's no excruciating pain or anything I can't deal with. It's not anything that's going to keep me off the field."
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a solid option in Week 1 at home against the New Orleans Saints.
8/29/2005
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Peppers to miss finale
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Julius Pepper (foot) is not expected to play in Thursday's preseason finale against Pittsburgh. "We're just resting him; he's day-to-day and right now we're looking to have him ready for New Orleans (Week 1)," head coach John Fox said. "He's still exercising and staying in good shape. In essence we're just resting his foot."
Analysis: The ailment is not considered serious, so don't drop Peppers or the Panthers DST on rank lists.
8/27/2005
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Peppers out of action
News: Julius Peppers (foot) missed Friday's preseason contest vs. Cleveland.
Analysis: The ailment is not considered serious.
8/23/2005
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Peppers has sore ankle
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Julius Peppers missed practice Monday with an ankle sprain. "It's day to day," Peppers said. "Just being a little extra cautious, just resting it with the boot. It's nothing major; it's been a little sore over the last couple of weeks."
Analysis: The ailment isn't considered serious and won't alter Peppers' immense value in IDP leagues.
8/21/2005
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Good, bad news for Panthers D
News: The Panthers had a mix of news in their loss against the Giants. The good: They mostly held down the Giants' first-string offense and DE Julius Peppers had a touchdown. The bad: They gave up two long TDs and SS Colin Branch tore his right ACL and MCL and will miss the season.
Analysis: Branch may be replaced by rookie Thomas Davis, who earlier in camp switched to linebacker. Carolina's D is still one of the best in the NFL.
8/15/2005
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Panthers move rookie Davis to SLB
News: The Charlotte Observer reports rookie Thomas Davis will move full time to the strongside linebacker position, according to Panthers defensive coordinator Mike Trgovac. The move was due to the injury to LB Brandon Short.
Analysis: Davis is a hard-hitting player who should add some pop to the Panthers' linebacking corps. Carolina's DST is one of the best in Fantasy Football.
8/6/2005
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Minter has sprained knee
News: There is no significant damage to the left knee of Carolina Panthers FS Mike Minter, who has a sprain but no major structural or ligament damage, head coach John Fox said Friday. "Usually when something bad happens, it requires surgery. With this it's just rehab and rest," Fox said. Minter is expected to miss around two weeks.
Analysis: The injury occurred during live goal line drills late in Thursday's second practice session. Minter is the midst of moving from strong safety, where he has played the majority of his career, to free safety. The change is designed to accommodate first-round draft pick Thomas Davis, who is likely to end up starting at strong safety.
8/5/2005
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Mike Minter hurts knee
News: Mike Minter was taken off the practice field with his left knee wrapped heavily in ice following Thursday afternoon's practice. Panthers head coach John Fox said Minter sprained his knee, but said the extent of the injury will not be known until later, possibly Friday. Team officials said trainers were going to treat the knee and determine if Minter will need an MRI.
Analysis: The injury occurred during live goal line drills late in Thursday's second practice session. Minter is the midst of moving from strong safety, where he has played the majority of his career, to free safety. The change is designed to accommodate first-round draft pick Thomas Davis, who is likely to end up starting at strong safety.
7/29/2005
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Rookie Davis signs with CAR
News: Panthers first-round pick Thomas Davis has agreed to a five-year deal. The rookie is expected to start this season and has drawn rave reviews thus far.
Analysis: Davis could put the Panthers DST over the top as the best DST in the NFC this season. Obviously, the Panthers' unit was draftable before this signing, but now that he's in the fold and in camp, expect Carolina to rise up our draft boards.
News: Mark Fields begins treatment Thursday for a recurrence of Hodgkin's disease. He will start a round of chemotherapy at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix and will miss the upcoming NFL season. "My intentions are to come back again," he said. "If you're going to get cancer, this is kind of the one to get."
Analysis: Sidelined because of cancer for the first time in 2003 when the Panthers made the Super Bowl, Fields returned last season and made the Pro Bowl for the second time. He had 60 tackles, four sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception.
6/20/2005
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Panthers secondary improving
News: The Winston-Salem Journal reports that the Panthers' secondary is on the rise. Rookie safety Thomas Davis is getting compared to Baltimore's Ed Reed, and Chris Gamble (6 INTs in 2004) appears to be the team's other starting cornerback opposite newcomer Ken Lucas.
Analysis: The Panthers are already one of the top D/ST units in Fantasy Football, but could produce Ravens- and Patriots-like numbers for your team if the secondary can shut opponents down.
6/17/2005
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Peppers running wild
News: The Winston-Salem Journal reports that Julius Peppers is in great shape, running ahead of the curve for linemen and even accepting racing challenges from teammates, all while weighing nearly 300 pounds. "I'm impressed with everything this man does," teammate Mike Minter said. "You can just imagine (him) moving that fast across a field in a game."
Analysis: The Panthers are one of the top D/ST units in Fantasy Football.
4/23/2005
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Panthers select Thomas Davis
News: The Carolina Panthers selected Davis with the No. 14 overall selection in the 2005 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Davis can play outside linebacker or safety for the Panthers, who land an athlete that has drawn comparisons to Derrick Brooks.
3/4/2005
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Panthers ink CB Lucas
News: The Carolina Panthers have signed Ken Lucas.
Analysis: Lucas will compete with Ricky Manning and Chris Gamble for a starting cornerback spot.
12/19/2004
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DE Julius Peppers scores TD
News: The Carolina DST allowed 34 points with one TD (Peppers), four sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries in Saturday's overtime loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has re-emerged as a useful option in recent weeks.
12/12/2004
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Panthers D manhandles Rams
News: The Carolina defense allowed seven points and 289 total yards in Week 14 against St. Louis. The unit also had three sacks, six interceptions and one forced fumble.
Analysis: LB Dan Morgan (concussion) was able to play, nabbing two of the six interceptions of Chris Chandler. The Panthers are a recommended Fantasy defense for Week 15 at Atlanta.
12/10/2004
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LB Dan Morgan to start
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (concussion) has been cleared to start in Week 14.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a nice option in Week 14 vs. the Rams.
12/9/2004
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LB Morgan questionable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Dan Morgan (concussion) is questionable for Week 14.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is a nice option in Week 14 vs. the Rams.
12/5/2004
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Panthers DST holds Saints down
News: Carolina allowed only 30 yards rushing and 250 yards passing at New Orleans in Week 13. The unit also created three turnovers.
Analysis: The Panthers DST seems to be coming around a bit. They are not worth starting against the Rams in Week 14 however.
12/2/2004
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LB Dan Morgan out
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (concussion) practiced Wednesday but wasn't involved in any contact drills. He looked "very good," according to coach John Fox, but is listed as doubtful for Week 13.
Analysis: In other news, LB Brian Allen (pectoral muscle) and DT Brentson Buckner (knee) did not practice and are listed as questionable.
11/30/2004
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Morgan's status uncertain
News: The Charlotte Observer reports LB Dan Morgan (concussion) is out indefinitely. "When you're dealing with a head concussion, it's not like a broken bone or a pulled muscle," said coach John Fox.
Analysis: Morgan has been hindered by injuries for much of the season.
11/28/2004
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Peppers powers Panthers
News: Carolina defensive end Julius Peppers returned an interception 46 yards for a key touchdown in a Week 12 win over Tampa.
Analysis: The Panthers also recovered two Michael Pittman fumbles and had two sacks. Despite their nice day, they aren't a good option as a Fantasy D/ST. The Panthers travel to New Orleans in Week 13.
11/25/2004
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LB Dan Morgan OUT
News: The Panthers official website reports Morgan (concussion) will miss at least one more week. "It's something that may take some time," coach John Fox said.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is not a recommended option in Week 12.
11/16/2004
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LB Dan Morgan out
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (concussion) is expected to miss Week 11.
Analysis: Morgan has dealt with the ailment for the past two contests.
11/15/2004
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LB Morgan leaves game early
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that LB Dan Morgan missed most of Sunday's game at San Francisco after receiving a hit in the head.
Analysis: Morgan will be examined Monday to determine if he suffered yet another concussion.
11/14/2004
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LB Morgan, S Minter able to go
News: LB Dan Morgan (head) and S Mike Minter (knee) were both able to play in Week 10 at San Francisco.
Analysis: The 49ers posted 27 points and 357 total net yards in Week 10. The Panthers defensive unit will look to bounce back in Week 11 against the Cardinals.
11/12/2004
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Dan Morgan practices
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Morgan (concussion) practiced on Thursday. He is questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, CB Artrell Hawkins (hamstring), S Mike Minter (knee), DT Kindal Moorehead (shoulder) practiced and are listed as questionable. CB Chris Gamble (knee) is probable.
11/10/2004
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Mike Minter questionable
News: According to reports, Minter (knee) missed practice on Wednesday. He is questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, LB Dan Morgan (concussion) and CBs Artrell Hawkins (hamstring) and Chris Gamble (knee) also practiced. Morgan and Hawkins are questionable; Gamble is probable.
11/9/2004
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LB Morgan to return
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Dan Morgan (concussion) expects to return in Week 10. "I was ready Sunday, they were just being cautious so I didn't play," Morgan said. "I'm back this week. I guess they thought why take any chances, so I really can't complain."
Analysis: In other news, CB Chris Gamble (knee) said he would be ready to play at San Francisco, as did S Mike Minter (knee).
11/8/2004
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DB Gamble injures knee
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that DB Chris Gamble left Sunday's game against Oakland with a knee injury. LB Dan Morgan (concussion) was also on the inactive list this week.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has not been a strong unit this season and should not be starting in Fantasy leagues.
11/5/2004
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Morgan doubtful for Week 9
News: Dan Morgan (concussion) has been downgraded from questionable to doubtful for Week 9's game against Oakland.
Analysis: Morgan has a history of concussions, so the Panthers are playing it safe with their star linebacker.
11/5/2004
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Dan Morgan practices
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Morgan (concussion) practiced Thursday but avoided most contact. "Basically, this was our one padded practice this week, and we wanted to give that another day," coach John Fox said. "(Morgan) will still be day to day."
Analysis: In other news, CB Artrell Hawkins strained his hamstring in Wednesday's practice and did not practice Thursday. He's listed as questionable for Week 9.
11/4/2004
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LB Dan Morgan practices
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (concussion) practiced on Wednesday. He is questionable for Week 9. Also listed as questionable are CB Chris Gamble (knee), DT Kindal Moorehead (shoulder) and S Travares Tillman (forearm).
Analysis: In other news, KR Rod Smart (knee) has been placed on injured reserve and is out for the season.
11/2/2004
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LB Morgan questionable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Dan Morgan (head) could be sidelined for Week 9. "You always err on the side of caution when you're dealing with a concussion-type of injury," coach John Fox said.
Analysis: The Panthers DST is no longer worth starting in most leagues.
News: According to the Charlotre Observer, S Travares Tillman (forearm) is listed as questionable for Week 8. DT Omari Jordan (ankle) and Kindal Moorehead (ankle) are probable.
Analysis: The Panthers DST no longer warrants a starting role in most leagues.
10/26/2004
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Tillman's X-rays negative
News: The Gaston Gazette reports X-rays on FS Travares Tillman’s forearm were negative, but his status for Week 8 is unacertain.
Analysis: Tillman split reps in Week 7 with FS Colin Branch, who has a broken wrist.
10/24/2004
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No support for Panthers
News: Despite limiting the Chargers to just 17 points, the Panthers fell in defeat in Week 7.
Analysis: Carolina got no support from their offense, which scored six points. They should only be used in larger leagues. The Panthers travel to Seattle in Week 8.
10/22/2004
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DE Al Wallace probable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Wallace (back) is listed as probable for Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, LB Mark Fields (back), DT Omari Jordan (ankle) and LB Vinny Ciurciu were upgraded from questionable to probable.
10/21/2004
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LB Mark Fields questionable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Fields (back spasms) is listed as questionable for Week 7. DT Omari Jordan (ankle)is also questionable.
Analysis: In other news, S Colin Branch (thumb) and DE Mike Rucker (chest) are probable. KR Rod Smart (knee) is out.
10/19/2004
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DT Mike Rucker OK
News: The Charlotte Observer reports doctors have given Rucker a clean bill of health after having an irregular heartbeat Sunday."The heart just kind of got off-kilter," Rucker said. "It was just excitement; it happens all the time to guys, so it's nothing to be alarmed about."
Analysis: In other news, LB Mark Fields (back spasms) has missed two games after leaving the Atlanta contest. "It's just treatment that's involved in his back that takes time," coach John Fox said. "Most spasms are caused by some kind of a disk problem, and that's the way they're treating it."
10/18/2004
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DL Rucker's heart skips a beat
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that DE Mike Rucker left Sunday's game at Philadelphia after the first series with an irregular heartbeat. He also experienced something similar in Week 5.
Analysis: The Panthers DST has been a great disappointment this year. Rucker has not registered a sack and injuries have ravaged this team. They are only worth starting against favorable matchups at this point.
10/15/2004
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Panthers ink Jamall Broussard
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, the Panthers have signed Broussard to their active roster.
Analysis: The team hopes he can give them a spark as a return man on special teams.
10/14/2004
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LB Fields misses practice
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, LB Mark Fields (back spasms) and DT Omari Jordan (ankle) didn't practice on Wednesday. However, DT Brentson Buckner (knee) did.
Analysis: In other news, DT Kris Jenkins (shoulder) is out for the remainder of the season.
10/13/2004
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DT Jenkins out for season
News: According to reports, DT Kris Jenkins (shoulder) is out for the remainder of the season.
Analysis: This is one of several injuries that have handcuffed the defending NFC champions in 2004.
10/11/2004
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DT Buckner sidelined Sunday
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Buckner (knee) was unable to play at Denver in Week 5.
Analysis: Buckner's absence allowed the Broncos to rush for 210 yards. Expect him back for Week 6 at Philadelphia. The Panthers defense remains a good Fantasy option despite their recent performance.
10/8/2004
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DT Jenkins probable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports DT Kris Jenkins (shoulder) was added to the injury report after practice Thursday. He is listed as probable for Week 5.
Analysis: In other news, LB Mark Fields (back) and DT Brenson Buckner (knee) returned to practice and are listed as questionable.
10/7/2004
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DT Buckner says he'll play
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Brenson Buckner (knee) was held out of practice Wednesday but said he expects to play in Week 5. "It was kind of sore on Monday, and then it started getting better," Buckner said. "[Wednesday] was just like an extra day to rest."
Analysis: In other news, LB Mark Fields (back spasms) and KR Rod Smart (knee) also missed the Panthers' workout. Both are questionable.
10/6/2004
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Rod Smart has MRI
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Smart had and MRI on his left knee that didn't reveal any tears. The team isn't sure if he will miss any time and his condition will be evaluated again on Wednesday.
Analysis: If Smart is unable to play in Week 5, Eugene Baker, Keary Colbert and DeShaun Foster would be alternatives to return kicks.
10/5/2004
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LB Mark Fields status unknown
News: The Charlotte Observer notes that Fields' (back spasms) status for Week 5 at Denver won't be known until Wednesday.
Analysis: Fields works in the middle of an excellent Fantasy defense. Even if he can't go, the Panthers are still worth starting every week.
10/4/2004
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Rod Smart to have MRI Monday
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Smart injured his left knee early in the second quarter of Sunday's game against Atlanta. He was unable to return and is scheduled to have an MRI exam Monday. "I felt it pop," he said.
Analysis: Smart is crucial to the team's ST unit. His game-breaking speed as a kick returner would be sorely missed. They were already without punt returner Steve Smith.
10/3/2004
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Panthers defense shaky in Week 4
News: The Carolina Panthers defense allowed 313 net yards and 27 points in Week 4 against the Falcons.
Analysis: The Panthers did not record a sack, interception or fumble recovery. The unit will look to regroup in Week 5 when Jake Plummer and the Broncos pay a visit to Ericsson Stadium.
9/30/2004
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DT Jenkins to start
News: According to the Gaston Gazette, DT Kris Jenkins (shoulder) was back on the practice field Wednesday and will start in Week 4.
Analysis: The Panthers DST remains a solid option in Fantasy Football.
9/28/2004
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DT Jenkins misses practice
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, Kris Jenkins (shoulder) missed practice on Monday.
Analysis: Barring setbacks, Jenkins should be on the field in Week 4 against Atlanta.
9/22/2004
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DT Jenkins is OK
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, DT Kris Jenkins' shoulder injury is minor. He has a partial dislocation and will not need surgery.
Analysis: Jenkins could miss some practice, but the Panthers have a bye this week. He should be ready Oct. 3 when the Panthers host Atlanta.
9/19/2004
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Panthers allow 17 points
News: The Panthers DST allowed 17 points with three sacks, one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's win over Kansas City.
Analysis: The Panthers have a bye in Week 3, so reserve this unit.
9/15/2004
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Chris Gamble to return punts
News: According to the Charlotte Observer, CB Gamble will return punts on special teams in the absence of Steve Smith.
Analysis: The loss of Smith hurts the unit of this value a bit, but Gamble should fill in and do a solid job.
9/15/2004
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CB Gamble to return punts?
News: With Steve Smith (broken fibula) out indefinitely, the team might give rookie CB Chris Gamble a shot at returning punts in Week 2 at Kansas City.
Analysis: Carolina's defense/special teams unit might see a slight decrease in Fantasy appeal unless Gamble is able to duplicate the success he had at Ohio State as a kick returner.
9/14/2004
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Panthers defense decent in loss
News: The Carolina defense allowed only 279 net yards in Week 1 against the Packers, but were victims of turnovers by their offense. The Packers average starting field position in Monday's game was the Green Bay 33.
Analysis: The offense turned the ball over on successive possessions with favorable field position and the Packers took advantage with two touchdowns to put Carolina in a deep hole. The defense will look to contain Priest Holmes in Week 2 at Kansas City. Consider reserving them if you have a defensive unit with a more favorable matchup.
9/6/2004
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Panthers place two on I-R
News: The Carolina Panthers placed LB Jessie Armstead (shoulder) and DT Shane Burton (knee) on injured reserve on Sunday ending both of their seasons.
Analysis: In other news, the team also cut CB Terrence Shaw, DT Jordan Carstens, CB Marcus Floyd, CB Eddie Jackson and LB Sean Tufts. Despite the losses of Armstead and Burton, the Carolina defense is still a top-tier unit in most formats.
News: DE Kavika Pittman will miss the season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. "I went out there and told myself, 'I'm about to give (offensive tackle) Melvin Tuten the business,"' Pittman said. "Instead, the knee gave me the business. But it's all right. I'm in good spirits and I'll be back."
Analysis: Pittman is expected to undergo surgery on Monday. He was vying for a reserve spot behind Julius Peppers. It appears Kemp Rasmussen will fulfill that role now. His loss does not affect the high value of the Panthers defensive unit from a Fantasy perspective.
7/31/2004
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Panthers sign CB Gamble
News: The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms on a five-year contract with first-round pick Chris Gamble on Saturday, according to the Charlotte Observer.
Analysis: Gamble will compete for a starting job at cornerback. His addition strengthens an already solid unit, especially if he gets an opportunity to return punts and kickoffs.
12/18/2003
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Dan Morgan probable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Morgan (concussion) practiced Wednesday for the first time since Week 13. He is probable for Sunday's game against Detroit.
Analysis: Morgan will help solidify a good Panthers defense against a poor Lions offense. They are a must-start unit in all leagues.
12/17/2003
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LB Morgan back at workouts
News: Morgan (concussion) has returned to practices.
Analysis: Carolina's defense should perform very well against Detroit in Week 16.
12/10/2003
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Panthers have key injuries
News: The Charlotte Observer reports DE Mike Rucker Has a sprained knee, and his status or Week 15 is uncertain. The status of MLB Dan Morgan (concussion) is also unclear.
Analysis: DE Al Wallace and LB Will Witherspoon would start if both players are unavailable. The Panthers' defense remains a good starting choice even with such injuries because they are facing Arizona.
11/9/2003
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Mike Rucker active
News: Rucker (ankle) was active in Week 10. He posted two solo tackles and one sack in a win over Tampa Bay. LB Dan Morgan (concussion) was also active.
Analysis: The Panthers defense remains a must-start Fantasy unit.
11/6/2003
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LB Morgan probable for Week 10
News: Morgan (concussion) was listed as probable for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Panthers remain a must-start defense in most Fantasy leagues.
11/4/2003
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Rucker questionable
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Mike Rucker (ankle) will be questionable for Week 10 against Tampa Bay. He sprained the same ankle in the preseason.
Analysis: The Carolina pass rush will be downgraded a bit if Rucker can't go. They still remain a top Fantasy defense.
11/2/2003
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LB Dan Morgan out
News: Morgan (concussion) was inactive for Week 9.
Analysis: His status for Week 10 is uncertain.
10/30/2003
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Carolina Panthers defense update
News: The Panthers are dealing with various injuries on the defensive side of the football for their game in Week 9 at Houston. DT Brentson Buckner (hip) was able to practice on Wednesday. He is considered probable. DT Shane Burton (groin) is probable. He was able to practice Wednesday. DE Al Wallace (wrist) was able to practice Wednesday, but is considered questionable.
Analysis: The most serious injury is to Dan Morgan (concussion). He is considered doubtful. Lester Towns might start in his absence, although he struggled mightily in Week 8. Will Witherspoon might slide over from the weak-side to fill the void. Despite the injuries, Carolina's defensive unit is still a nice option in most Fantasy leagues against the Texans.
9/25/2003
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Mike Caldwell questionable
News: The NFL's official injury report lists Caldwell (knee) as questionable for Sunday's game against Atlanta.
Analysis: Caldwell's return should help bolster this defensive unit a little bit. The Panthers linebacking corps has been riddled with injuries. They should perform well against the Falcons in Week 4.
9/24/2003
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Dan Morgan is practicing
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Dan Morgan (hamstring) has returned to practices. "I felt pretty good," Morgan said. "I didn't feel great, but I felt decent. I'm just going to play it day-by-day. If I can play, I'll play. If I can't, I'm not."
Analysis: Morgan is listed as probable, but he might not be 100 percent in Week 4. Still, his presence should help the Panthers stifle the Atlanta offense if he can play at all.
9/18/2003
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Dan Morgan improving
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, but said his sore hamstring continues to improve. "I felt pretty good (Wednesday)," Morgan said. "I did some cutting and some change of direction stuff. I feel a lot more confident than I did last week."
Analysis: Carolina has a bye in Week 3.
9/16/2003
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Dan Morgan update
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Morgan (hamstring) should be fine for Week 4 against Atlanta. LB Mike Caldwell (knee) might also return. "(The bye week) will give us a good chance to get healthy," coach John Fox said.
Analysis: The Panthers have a bye in Week 3.
9/15/2003
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DE Pittman done for the season
News: Kavika Pittman suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament at Tampa Bay in Week 2. He is expected to be placed on injured reserve and is lost for the season.
Analysis: Pittman is a backup and his loss will not significantly decrease the Fanatsy value of a defensive unit which played well in a 12-9 overtime win at Tampa Bay.
9/12/2003
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Morgan questionable for Week 2
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Dan Morgan (hamstring) is questionable for Week 2 against Carolina. "I've just got to see how it feels," Morgan said. "Hopefully, I can play. If not, I'm sure I'll be ready for Atlanta (on Sept. 28). If I can play, I'll play no matter what."
Analysis: Lester Towns is the top backup at middle linebacker and would start if Morgan were unable to play.
9/8/2003
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Mike Caldwell out one month
News: According to published reports, Caldwell (knee) is out of action for at least one month. He was hurt in the first quarter of Carolina's 24-23 victory over Jacksonville on Sunday. He needed help walking off the field, and after the game coach John Fox called the injury significant.
Analysis: Caldwell was just added last week to replace Mark Fields (Hodgkin's Disease). His absence doesn't have a major impact on the value of this unit.
9/7/2003
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LB Caldwell injures knee Sunday
News: Mike Caldwell left Sunday's game against Jacksonville with a knee injury and it is feared he might be lost for the rest of the season.
Analysis: Caldwell was recently signed to replace Mark Fields (Hodgkin's Disease). His loss would further decrease the Fantasy value of a defensive unit which was very disappointing on Sunday.
9/2/2003
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Panthers sign Mike Caldwell
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that the Panthers have signed Caldwell to a three-year deal. "I really like the commitment at Carolina; they're an up-and-coming team with a blitzing and attacking style," Caldwell said. "I talked to a lot of people about them and it seemed like a good opportunity for me, a chance to get on the field."
Analysis: Caldwell helps ease the loss of Mark Fields, who is out after being diagnosed with Hodgkins disease.
9/1/2003
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Panthers cut KR Michael Bates
News: The Carolina Panthers announced the four-time Pro Bowler Bates was among the cuts on Sunday.
Analysis: Rod "He Hate Me" Smart and Eugene Baker will be used on kickoff returns in Bates' absence. Carolina remains a top defensive/special teams unit in most Fantasy formats.
8/18/2003
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Brentson Buckner out
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that Buckner had arthroscopic knee surgery Sunday and is expected to miss the rest of the preseason.General manager Marty Hurney said the surgery was to clean out loose particles in Buckner's knee.
Analysis: Coach John Fox said Buckner should be ready for the Sept. 7 regular-season opener against Jacksonville. Shane Burton worked in Buckner's place during Sunday's practice.
8/17/2003
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Carolina loses LB Mark Fields
News: The Panthers announced Sunday that Fields will miss the entire season after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease.
Analysis: Fields was the team leader in tackles a season ago and he forced a team-record seven forced fumbles. His loss decreases the Fantasy value of the defensive unit a bit. They are still a top 10 Fantasy defensive unit.
7/17/2003
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Carolina CB denied return
News: The NFL has denied Rashard Anderson's bid for reinstatement to the league, which suspended him for violating its substance abuse policy. He was due to be reinstated to the league in May, but agent Ben Wilson said Thursday the league sent him a letter last week denying Anderson's application. "He's got the right to seek reinstatement again, but not until late in the season," Wilson said. "Our hope is that he will play again this year."
Analysis: The Panthers should still field a very good Fantasy defensive unit this year, regardless of Anderson's situation.
