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March 27, 2008
Panthers attend private workout by Mendenhall
Carolina Panthers officials held a private
workout on campus today with Illinois running back Rashard
Mendenhall (5, at right).Posted by Observer Sports on March 27, 2008 at 10:29 AM | Permalink
Comments
I know going DE or OT is the sound thing to with the 13th pick, but I would be ecstatic with Mendenhall.
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 10:46:18 AM
Mendenhall's great, but I still say you never take a QB or an RB with the first round pick. Sure, there are plenty of examples of it working out, but there's so many more of it not working out.
Picking a QB is a crap shoot, and there are plenty of good RBs in later rounds.
GET A LEFT TACKLE!
Posted by: BullCityDog | Mar 27, 2008 10:51:26 AM
I know we need an LT but it's hard to bypass a playmaker when you have the opportunity to get one. Peterson proved last year how much an outstanding player can change an offense. I doubt we'll have to worry about having the chance to get Mendenhall though...somebody will scoop him up. If we could grab Williams at LT in the first round, then maybe move up in the second and pick Stewart then those two would give us a successful draft in my mind. I look at it though as things that we have to have. We don't have to pick a running back because we have DeAngelo. We don't have to pick a LT because if needed, Wharton can move back outside and we have our pick of guys who can fill either spot at guard. The must have to me in the draft is DL. We don't have another starter opposite Pep on the roster and we have zero depth at DT.
Posted by: JT | Mar 27, 2008 11:03:55 AM
ILL ... INI!
Posted by: Joaquin | Mar 27, 2008 11:13:16 AM
If Mendenhall makes is past the Bronco's which is likely,hes ours.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 11:16:44 AM
you guys can't write for anything...do you realize that Mendenhall outweighs Williams by only 8 pounds? Do those 8 pounds really mean the difference between a little guy who you don't think can carry the load despite setting the NCAA record and a "big back?"
Such hacks. Have you actually heard John Fox or Hurney say they want a big back? It's 8 pounds you morons.
Posted by: John | Mar 27, 2008 11:19:00 AM
Yipppppppeeeee!!
I had just about given up hope of the Panthers drafting a RB in the first round.
Posted by: ZZ | Mar 27, 2008 11:35:59 AM
Why did they bring in the guy from Jacksonville if they are looking to draft RBs. Go left tackle - Delhomme is going to get hurt again and we need protection for Moore. Moore is the future.
Posted by: Kelso | Mar 27, 2008 11:43:57 AM
I don't think they will draft a RB in the first round although this kid seems talented. They should pickup a OL or DL and then move on from there. The draft in and of itself is a crap shot. We pick up good first rounders and then what. We took a first overall with Carr and he sucked. The draft is hard to predict who is going to be good, but we should fill our immediate needs and proceed from there.
Posted by: Panthers2003 | Mar 27, 2008 11:46:33 AM
good blog! I hope they go OT in 1st rd. and jonathon stewart 2nd round.
Posted by: Radicaldad | Mar 27, 2008 11:48:14 AM
Harvey stinks, a potential Bad pick.
Posted by: Radicaldad | Mar 27, 2008 11:49:09 AM
John I agree with your point. D-lo is also shorter than Mendenhall.
WHAT IF...Sedrick Ellis slips in the draft? There are players who supposedly are "rising" up draft boards, so that means some one has to go down. He was a beast at the senior bowl and as stated in many blogs, we are light on DT depth. Opinions?
Posted by: Will Parker | Mar 27, 2008 11:51:31 AM
These guys whining about left tackles think that just because they guy was taken in the 1st round that he is an all world left tackle. Williams and Otah are pretenders. I guarantee that the Panthers can still get a good hard working left tackle in the 2nd or 3rd with Mendenhall selected in the 1st.
Posted by: Brainiac | Mar 27, 2008 11:56:30 AM
If the Panther brass can move up during the draft either way will work (1st-LT & 2nd-RB orrr 1st-RB & 2nd-LT). ...Depending on how the chips fall, naturally. I agree with Chandler though, if Mendenhal is available and you don't have a massive LT there, you have to pick him up.
Posted by: SYRPIS | Mar 27, 2008 12:05:54 PM
Ya its true if hes the best talent at the time u gota grab him. Although im thinkn these are just smoke signals to other teams around us in the draft that if they want him they may have to trade to secure him. therefore, more picks for us, and the cards.,lions,and bears all need a back like Mendenhall. So, we woulndt move too many spots and could still snag are real guy...whoever that is? Its all a crap shoot, nobody is a guarante to be a first round talent in this draft except the LONGS, DORSEY, and RYAN. Im thinkn there gone be gone so, if your hurney and fox these picks make or brake you.
Posted by: randy | Mar 27, 2008 12:21:55 PM
Nothing against the guy, he's a great HB and would fit well next to Williams but we need a Tackle, hopefully LT but RT is acceptable since Gross can play both..or a DE we don't have a good guy there... a back should be second priority
Posted by: Sir Auron | Mar 27, 2008 12:59:07 PM
You guys are going to cry like babies when your Ot and De picks in the first turn out to be wrong,again.Are most of you just Mock Draft sheep or what?
Posted by: Stroker Ace | Mar 27, 2008 1:15:02 PM
Also it's a 2 back league,sometimes 3 if you ask the Giants.Who are the Panthers 2 backs?
Posted by: Stroker Ace | Mar 27, 2008 1:17:42 PM
I tellin you guys.... Mendenhal is a good fit. My opinion JOHNSON (link below) is much better but.. time will tell. Either is MUCH more valuable than ONE guy of FIVE on a much deeper O-line than our RB situation. Oh and John, no offense dude but you're not the sharpest knife in the drawer. Have you seen Mendenhal run? Have you seen Williams in practice live? No? Williams is a pansy when it comes to short yardage, head down, north- south running. The insinuation with "big back" isn't BIG, so much as, not small AND willing to get tough yards... not dance around like a fairy and loose three on third and ONE.
Posted by: handyman | Mar 27, 2008 1:33:04 PM
sorry... check THIS RB out! (cut and paste address)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhUhLtAC_Ok
Posted by: handyman | Mar 27, 2008 1:41:47 PM
Carolina will do like Carolina does every year in the Draft. Pick the Best Available Player at 13. Yes they have needs but it is still a long time before the season starts and as other teams draft Offensive lineman etc, they will also have to release some.
Posted by: chknwing | Mar 27, 2008 2:01:48 PM
I agree with john! This guy is 8 pounds heavier than Williams and around an inch taller. What does this do for us? Are we assuming that we waisted a draft pick on williams? He hasn't even gotten the chance to shine. I think he has the ability to become one of the elite backs in the NFL. His size is not an issue. Was barry sanders a "big Back", or Emmit Smith, or LT. The list goes on. We don't need a 1st round RB. We need a solid tackle and some D-line help. We can pick up a decent back later in the draft to compliment williams.They will be around (willie parker for example). Just b/c you're a first rounder doesn't mean you can be a difference maker in the NFL. RBs are often busts. OL or DL! We would be wasting our pick if we get mendenhall. It doesn't matter if you can outrun god himself if you don't have a solid line to open up the holes for you. Anyone know what happened to edgerin James? My point exactly. We don't need flashy difference makers right now. We have them in smith and wiliams. We need beefy athletic linemen to keep jake healthy and let williams run wild. I say we go Ot in the first round. DE or DT in the second. FS and RB in the third. And keep WR/return man, TE, DT, G, and FB in the later rounds. Please don't waste this pick on mendenhall. Start with the meant and potatoes, literaly. Once we have a dominant OL and DL everything else will fall into place.
Posted by: Jake | Mar 27, 2008 2:16:35 PM
Jake, you and John don't know Jack. You need to hit the film room again. Mendenhall is the best runningback in the 2008 NFL draft. He would be the perfect addition to the Panthers.
Posted by: Brainiac | Mar 27, 2008 2:35:11 PM
Remember....in the NFL, it's not just about size. So what if Mendenhall is only 8 lbs heavier or 1" taller than Do-Lo, it's all about running style. I haven't seen enough film to see if Mendenhall is a power back, but if he's consistently run through defenses and go to the gut, per say, then you can say he's a power back as well. Do-Lo has always been known as a run to the outside type of player. His speed and size allow him to be the elusive back that he is, but he is NOT a power back. He falls 3 yards short when he's hit.
I don't know about Mendenhall, but if his mechanics are right and he hits the pocket with alot of force and power, then he's just as good a power back as we can hope he is. Fact is, it's not about size that makes you a power back, but rather, the mechanics.
Do-Lo falls back so much when he's hit because he's not ready to take that hit. That's not to say that he isn't a good RB or isn't #1. According to the Panthers, he's our #1, but we need someone to complement him and split carries. The Panthers, and just about all of us know that Do-Lo won't be able to sustain 25-30 carries per game and continue with the kind of production he's had with his bursts of speed. WE need someone like Mendenhall to get us those 3-4 yards per carry during the course of the game so that Do-Lo can do his thing and burst for 50 yards on one carry when the opponent defense is tired. Game over if he can do that pretty consistently.
Posted by: Kenneth | Mar 27, 2008 2:43:00 PM
Jake,By drafting Mendenhall no1 is saying that they made a mistake or that he cant carry the load,its just the simple fact that you need 2 Hb in the NFL now days and lets just say that DLo gets injured(God Forbid) then what?You think a career backup in Toefield along with a concussion case and a carerr practice team player are going to get the job done?Hell no.DLo deserves to be the starter and will,but they need another spectacular option to give him a breather or spell him in case of injury.Mendenhall is that guy and this is the perfect time.If they dont get the back this year,they will have to next year and the Rb corp's in next years draft are nowhere as good and the availabilty sucks.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 2:53:51 PM
I wanted a LT or DE in the first round but if he is available, I say we get him. It would bring some smash mouth to our offense. Besides, he has incredible quickness and acceleration.
Posted by: james327 | Mar 27, 2008 2:56:09 PM
Jake,By drafting Mendenhall no1 is saying that they made a mistake on DlO , SORRY FORGOT THAT PART IN THE OPENING........
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 2:57:32 PM
with the moves they are making in the offseason to our line it's a good chance that don't pick a OL. we have picked up so many guards that is crazy and then try to shift a older guard over to tackle.
Posted by: panta4life | Mar 27, 2008 3:06:27 PM
the point is, we need someone to help run block FIRST, then get a runner next. i.e shaun alexanders big tackle goes to minnesota and then he washes out. lets build our o-line first, then worry about the backs in later rounds however, i say give d-will a chance. great line will make him shine
Posted by: Andrew Lee | Mar 27, 2008 3:19:05 PM
You don't spend a first round pick on a RB that you want to come in and get you 4 yards on 3rd down. You sign Labrandon Toefield (which we already have) who was a starter at LSU, fits perfectly into the mold of the BIG BACK, and would have been a much bigger name if the Jags didn't already have Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew. Besides, did any of you stop to think that the reason you have never heard of Toefield was because he played in JAX, where even an RB like Fred Taylor gets snuffed for the Pro Bowl every year because their market is so small? If we didn't think he could get it done, we wouldn't have signed him. We do NOT have the option to move Travelle back outside because we cut Hartwig AND Wahle, so he is our only proven starter. We NEED a dominant OT, and we NEED a dominant DL (either tackle OR end would work), period. Hurney and Fox are trying to sell this pick by making people think they are looking at Mendenhall. All of you idiots who think we need to waste a 1st round pick on an RB need to just give up on football and focus on hockey or something. I have a feeling you are the guys at the sports bar who shout "Hey did you see that guy hit that other guy???" or "Man number 89 is good, when did we get him???" Or here is a better idea, why don't you guys buy some tickets to a couple games, fill our seats, so that we don't lose another pro franchise in the next 10 years, and stop acting like you know how to run the team. Learn a few players' names, eat a hotdog, drink a beer, and get a clue.
Posted by: Steve | Mar 27, 2008 3:27:02 PM
With Mendenhall, a good 2nd or 3rd round LT, a good DT, solid DE, a backup LT, free safety and a TE. We will be hell - they can't stack the box or double Smith. DWill and Mendenhall could be the best tandem in the league. Championship!
Posted by: Brainiac | Mar 27, 2008 3:40:07 PM
A few of us have heard and do know about Toefield and the only thing he has ever shown is what he did in College at LSU.You do spend that 1st round pick on a RB ,who will give the proper 2 in your 1-2 punch or the man that will make sure the run game doesnt miss one beat if the back where to get injured.The Panthers have now invested enough money in the Offensive line and it will be cheaper to draft a 1st round RB and get the perfect value for him if the rookie contract is done right.VS. how much a Rt will cost because a dominate Lt wont be there or a De.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 4:19:24 PM
And thanks for already starting the Crybaby party Steve.Boo-Hoo,your not gonna report me for cyber bullying are you?
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 4:21:20 PM
Mendanhall is better than Mcfadden in my opinion better foot work. We could get cherlius or otah in maybe the 2nd round if the panthers trade up! after they select Mendenhall or harvey.
Posted by: paul | Mar 27, 2008 4:21:28 PM
ANDREW...WELL SAID...I do not really think you are 100% on it but know this.
Carolina tried hard to land a big back and a DE in free agency. They may be forced to go with the defensive ends that they have now and re-sign Rucker and let McClover and Johnson have a shot at a 3rd DE in the rotation. They can afford to this because their linebacking corps is suddenly one of the strongest in the league! Jon Beason was 3rd overall last year in the tackle dept...and they stil have Pep who has to be back next season (if not he is gone!). A healthy Peppers, Rucker, McClover are still better than almost 60% of all teams DE trios.
As far as an OT is concerned...You will see the Panthers draft one but they will take the best player available with that first pick and they be a runner(if Mebdenhall or through some fluke and a trade McFadden was still there...which he would not be...they would either of them and forgoe Clady. But Clady is more than likely going to be there first pick). The way they could get a top 5 power runner in this draft is by bundling 2 or 3 of their other picks and moving up to another 1st round slot or just take a tackle in the first round and and trade another pick to move up and take Felix Jones in the second.
That leaves a defensive end...Lawernce Jackson...Calais Campell... Chris Ellis...There are guys out there and they will get one.
Plus you guys forgot one! Carolina is also projected to pick QB in this darft. I still think they may sign a veteran but trust me, with Jake and a possible fragile elbow and Moore only an ankle sprain away from the bench it is very possible Joe Flacco or Woodson or even a bigger name QB winds up a Panther.
They could really trade off most of their late round picks and focus on drafting 4 players in the top 2 rounds. It could happen. Last year they thought they were 100% ready to go with the players they had on their roster. They now have upgraded the wideout slot and the linebacking corps and Holt may bolster the safety slot but the issues are tackle/guard, running back and a smart, playable qb. Richardson had to give Fox/Hurney a "one year to get a playoff win" edict and they are going to make whatever moves they have to in order to get starters in there. Even if it means hurting the core of the franchise by not drating later round "prospects/projects" players who would normally help build the team.
Posted by: Rick-NFLDRAFTDOG.com | Mar 27, 2008 4:21:41 PM
Ok, first for the idiot who wants us to draft a RB because of the impact Adrian Peterson had last year ...
WHAT WAS THE VIKINGS RECORD AGAIN??? OH YEAH, RIGHT. THEY GOT THEIR GUTS STOMPED OUT BY WASHINGTON IN THE SEASON FINALE!
My argument for getting a LT, look what Joe Thomas did for the Cleveland Browns. 10-6 record, barely missed the playoffs. In the NFC, a 10-6 record WILL get you into the playoffs ...
Draft a LT or trade down and get Kenny Phillips. Any other move is a WASTE OF TIME ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 4:22:33 PM
ANDREW...WELL SAID...I do not really think you are 100% on it but know this.
Carolina tried hard to land a big back and a DE in free agency. They may be forced to go with the defensive ends that they have now and re-sign Rucker and let McClover and Johnson have a shot at a 3rd DE in the rotation. They can afford to this because their linebacking corps is suddenly one of the strongest in the league! Jon Beason was 3rd overall last year in the tackle dept...and they stil have Pep who has to be back next season (if not he is gone!). A healthy Peppers, Rucker, McClover are still better than almost 60% of all teams DE trios.
Remember the DT is a needed slot as well and they have to draft there as well but that is a crap shoot.
As far as an OT is concerned...You will see the Panthers draft one but they will take the best player available with that first pick and they be a runner(if Mebdenhall or through some fluke and a trade McFadden was still there...which he would not be...they would either of them and forgoe Clady. But Clady is more than likely going to be there first pick). The way they could get a top 5 power runner in this draft is by bundling 2 or 3 of their other picks and moving up to another 1st round slot or just take a tackle in the first round and and trade another pick to move up and take Felix Jones in the second.
That leaves a defensive end...Lawernce Jackson...Calais Campell... Chris Ellis...There are guys out there and they will get one.
Plus you guys forgot one! Carolina is also projected to pick QB in this darft. I still think they may sign a veteran but trust me, with Jake and a possible fragile elbow and Moore only an ankle sprain away from the bench it is very possible Joe Flacco or Woodson or even a bigger name QB winds up a Panther.
They could really trade off most of their late round picks and focus on drafting 4 players in the top 2 rounds. It could happen. Last year they thought they were 100% ready to go with the players they had on their roster. They now have upgraded the wideout slot and the linebacking corps and Holt may bolster the safety slot but the issues are tackle/guard, running back and a smart, playable qb. Richardson had to give Fox/Hurney a "one year to get a playoff win" edict and they are going to make whatever moves they have to in order to get starters in there. Even if it means hurting the core of the franchise by not drating later round "prospects/projects" players who would normally help build the team.
Posted by: Rick-NFLDRAFTDOG.com | Mar 27, 2008 4:23:29 PM
Did you guys hear about Heath Benedict?
http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news?slug=ap-playerdies&prov=ap&type=lgns
Seems like something similar to this happens every offseason. It's madness.
Posted by: SYRPIS | Mar 27, 2008 4:23:44 PM
By the way, the Vikings finished 8-8 ... one win better than the Panthers ... with your "God" Adrian Peterson ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 4:30:03 PM
Obviously u guys cant get it through ur thick skulls that this is just a ploy to get teams to trade up for a guy they cuvit...as the jets are doing with McFadden...if he were to slip teams will be clamering to get that pick from the jets, thats all were doing here. trade down if possible and still get are guy. Balmer is better than Harvey by the way and Otah may be the ticket if we trade down and he slides...as projected.
Posted by: randy | Mar 27, 2008 5:47:51 PM
What if we don't get Mendenhall? I like the idea that we trade our first round pick for a later one, then pickup an extra 2nd or 3rd rounder for our troubles. That would give us a late first rounder, plus either two 2nd's & two 3rd's or one 2nd and THREE 3rd's. This is assuming all the pieces fall our way on draft day, but I like that scenario if it plays out.
Posted by: MikeD | Mar 27, 2008 5:49:41 PM
Randy, this is twice now, and I'm not going to stand by and see the English language assassinated by you and your ilk. The word is "covet", not "cuvit," which I'd imagine is something you could find in the linens department.
As for the football, I still say draft a guy who can play LT...if he can't do that, we might as well skip a high pick at the position altogether, because Wharton@LT and Gross@RT are likely to be as good or better as any rookie@RT and Gross@LT.
Posted by: Michael Procton | Mar 27, 2008 5:57:49 PM
Grab Clady first round,second round DE/DT or RB (Which ever Defensive player not picked up then get in 3rd round). Re-sign Rucker give some boys some chances and add depth to the DT position such as that Robertson guy who could very well be a starter even though he has a injury problem (only if passes Physical/health Tests). This plus some dropped players from other teams can be signed that couldn't fit in their cap room during camp and what not. But not really to worry I'm sure Fox/Hurney know what there doing this offseason, look how good they have done so far, Passings in the top 3 in the league in 2 wideouts and number 5 in the league in 3 wideouts and our linebacking core is one of the best in the league. Get ready for at least 10 wins this year but im seeing 12-13 but it all depends on watching to see what other teams do or if injurys occur.
Posted by: Beasons-A-Beast | Mar 27, 2008 6:10:36 PM
"You guys are going to cry like babies when your Ot and De picks in the first turn out to be wrong,again.Are most of you just Mock Draft sheep or what?"
Are you trying to argue the fact that we need a 'back more than a OT or DE?
Call me crazy but I'm much more comfortable with the duo of DeAngelo Williams and LaBrandon Toefield for a year,than I am with Jeremy Bridges at RT
Posted by: Sir Auron | Mar 27, 2008 6:30:12 PM
Procton I agree!! but I would like to see us draft DL. If they draft a rb get Mendenhall if he is a freak. We can always get S. Baker from USC in the 2nd round. If we don't get Mendenhall, we have to look at Chris Johnson. Everyone needs to get off this L.Toefield as a depended back. With all respect the Jags drafted Jones-Drew with F.Taylor,G.Jones,Toefield. So thinking he will even last through training camp is not a promise.Not to mention does anyone remember the '05 season. We need a couple of STUDS at RB. It is the ONLY thing that makes Fox's gameplan work. DeLo can be good but all it takes is 1 play and our guy will be L.Toefield?????? If Mendenhall is one of those special players draft him WITHOUT HESITATION!!!!!
Posted by: wowo | Mar 27, 2008 7:18:37 PM
Rucker is not the answer as starting DE anymore. Pep had one bad season and now everyone thinks his career is over or something. He will be back this year, but McGlover is our other starter unless we draft a beast. Hurney loves to get picks in bunches, so I agree that he is trying to sell this pick by making other teams think we want Mendenhall. They will trade down like they did last year and we will grab whichever of the blue chip OTs are left. The reason we signed Toefield is to be our backup, the reason we DID NOT sign Barry Sims is because we want to draft a tackle if at all possible. Our draft order - OT, DE, DT, TE, QB, RB or S or WR. After that we will take the best player available. Procton and Auron are not morons, most everyone else on this blog is. Ghost of Sparta, if you think I can be bullied at all online, you must be no older than 15. I could care less what you have to say when your login alone tells me that you are a balding, 400 lb. virgin who blogs while he watches the movie "300" over and over again, getting your adrenaline pumping for the "cyber bullying" you do on the virtual schoolyard. Unfortunately all those movies, cheeseburgers, and adrenaline will ultimately lead to the massive coronary you have in your computer chair while playing Madden 09 in a few months. And when your mom finds you in said chair after three and a half weeks because you didn't have any friends to wonder why you haven't shown up for work lately, she will find you with a controller in your lap, your house a pig-sty, and 400 GB of porn on your hard drive. Meanwhile, I will be watching the Panthers game with my friends and girlfriend at my favorite bar, our new LT opening up gaping holes for DeAngelo to slip through while we run our way to the playoffs. Hope this doesn't hit too close to home, try not to lose any more hair over it, would ya Sparta?
Posted by: Steve | Mar 27, 2008 7:30:20 PM
Awesome blog!!!!
The NFL network reported this workout happening on Tuesday!,
And now we see the "Insiders" post after the fact...
Anybody could "blog" for the Observer, watch TV and check out other webcites, Job Well Done Boys!
Please give us more talk about JPep's rippling muscles...Or just totally dodge the fact that JPep is a joke and is gonna ruin the Panthers salary cap after Hurney & Foxy give him the key to the city. Pay a guy who could care less about football and winning millions and millions of dollars, now that is an awesome franchise.
Posted by: Red | Mar 27, 2008 7:55:27 PM
Auron,I think to much money is already tied up with all the Offensive line additions,so they wouldnt spend first round money on that position and I think De is the same way with Johnson,McClover,Peppers,Brayton and possibly Rucker back for one year.Dt is a different story but the best Dt's in the draft wont be there when the Panthers pick at 13.
Shane -Joe Thomas is one exception and the 1st tackle taken in last years draft,like Jake Long will this year,the drop off from the other tackles taken last year after Thomas should tell you something.
If you look around the league tell me how many of the dominate Offensive Tackles that are anchors for their teams Offensive Lines are first round picks?The point is the dominate more rounded ones are later round picks or players that have sat the bench a season or 2.Look it up.
Rick The Draft Dog- Felix Jones will not make it to round 2,He will either go to Houston,The Cowpies, or another bottom team in the first,but he will not make it to the second.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 8:05:08 PM
@ Andrew Lee
Hutchinson was actually a OG....
Posted by: rhackney | Mar 27, 2008 8:15:25 PM
Any body remember the last time we took a Big Ten running back who had one good season? Tim Biakabutuka ring any bells. I say we pass on a RB and take a more pressing need.
Posted by: Adam | Mar 27, 2008 8:19:35 PM
Ghost of Sparta, if you think I can be bullied at all online, you must be no older than 15. I could care less what you have to say when your login alone tells me that you are a balding, 400 lb. virgin who blogs while he watches the movie "300" over and over again, getting your adrenaline pumping for the "cyber bullying" you do on the virtual schoolyard. Unfortunately all those movies, cheeseburgers, and adrenaline will ultimately lead to the massive coronary you have in your computer chair while playing Madden 09 in a few months. And when your mom finds you in said chair after three and a half weeks because you didn't have any friends to wonder why you haven't shown up for work lately, she will find you with a controller in your lap, your house a pig-sty, and 400 GB of porn on your hard drive. Meanwhile, I will be watching the Panthers game with my friends and girlfriend at my favorite bar, our new LT opening up gaping holes for DeAngelo to slip through while we run our way to the playoffs. Hope this doesn't hit too close to home, try not to lose any more hair over it, would ya Sparta?
Ok,sure thing champ, you sure did bite like a lil fish on that didnt you?Must be kind of insecure about something,because you rattled of alot about what must really be going on in your life up there or things you apire to do,either way good try champ.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 8:36:33 PM
Aspire even,Steve,Aspire.Get more origonal you sound like Tampa Terry.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 27, 2008 8:38:21 PM
A good offensive line can make anyone a star look at Emmitt Smith he did pretty well til he went to the card's.Lets get some bruisers on the line that can keep our defense on the bench.We had a good defense last year but they were on the field way to long.Offensive line must be a priority
Posted by: Two Birds | Mar 27, 2008 9:27:29 PM
Ghost,
Here's a list of LT starters who've been in the NFL and were drafted in the first round since 1987 (A few of these players are now retired) ...
Walter Jones - 6th overall 1997 Draft
Orlando Pace - 1st overall 1997 Draft
Johnathan Ogden - 4th overall 1996 Draft
Levi Jones - 10th overall 2002 Draft
Bryant McKinnie - 7th overall 2002 Draft
Jammal Brown - 13th overall 2005 Draft
Chris Samuels - 3rd overall 2000 Draft
D'Brickashaw Ferguson - 4th overall 2006 Draft
Jeff Backus - 18th overall 2001 Draft
William (Tra) Thomas - 11th overall 1998 Draft
Luke Petitgout - 19th overall 1999 Draft
Wayne Gandy - 15th overall 1995 Draft
Tarik Glenn - 19th overall 1997 Draft
Tony Boselli - 2nd overall 1995 Draft(before his shoulder problems killed his career was one of the most dominant LTs to play the game)
John Tait - 14th overall 1999 Draft (Has switched between LT and RT, but mostly a LT)
Todd Steussie - 18th overall 1994 Draft
Bob Whitfield - 8th overall 1992 Draft
Willie Roaf - 8th overall 1993 Draft
Brad Hopkins - 13th overall 1993 Draft
Bruce Armstrong - 23rd overall 1987 Draft (Anchored the Pats LT spot for more than a decade)
Richmond Webb - 9th overall 1990 Draft
Paul Gruber - 4th overall 1988 Draft
Sure you've got your L.J. Sheltons and Robert Gallerys of the world, but if you compare players drafted to play LT in the first round who had success vs. the flops, the ratio for success would be MUCH higher than if you compared RBs drafted in the first round who've had success vs. the flops ...
LT is the SAFE pick, if there even is a such thing ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 10:13:08 PM
And Ghost, I meant no disrespect by the last post. Generally, we're on the same page with most discussions here, but this is one where I had to wave the BS flag.
Hopefully you'll appreciate the research at least ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 10:15:50 PM
If Clady or Chris Williams (Vandy) isn't available at our pick I say trade back, pick up Merling or Harvey or some other DE, get a high second rounder to pick up Johnson (ECU). Our other second rounder can pick up a LT, or DE if we get a LT in the first round. Just a thought. It would probably be most prudent to pick up a lineman with our first pick, but I wouldn't be upset with a guy like Mendenhall. But that Johnson guy from ECU looks FAST.
Posted by: Christian | Mar 27, 2008 10:26:22 PM
We dont need a nother back but if we do why not mike hart. they are saying he is going to go in the 3rd round. He is a total bad ass the critics just say he has to much wear from his 4 years in michigan. Same thing goes for qb Chad Henne & Colt brenen are expected 3rd rounders Brenen has the best college carrer in the history of the game he has twice as many yards touchdowns as matt ryan and he has a better comp%. but because he played in the run -n- gun offense they think his stats are patted. But he satisticly is the best qb to ever play college football. I think hes worth a shot.
Posted by: chris | Mar 27, 2008 10:29:52 PM
I haven't read everyones point, so if I repeat anything....sorry.
If the draft is heavy on OT like I've heard....then shouldn't we go straight to DE? I don't know much about the guys in the draft, but I would think that position would be next on the list. Then OT and then DT (if we don't pick up that guy from the Jets). After that try a FS, RB or QB.
Thoughts?
Posted by: pnthrfan | Mar 27, 2008 10:34:57 PM
Pnthrfan, LT is the safest pick the Panthers can make. Everyone wants to complain when we pick the "best available" so why not make the obvious pick this year.
I think drafting Derrick Harvey is an admission that the pick on Charles Johnson was a wasted pick ...
One last piece of information as "food for thought" ... Of these DEs and RBs projected to go in the first round, how many will REALLY be stalwarts at their positions 10 years from now?
Posted by: Shane | Mar 27, 2008 10:45:03 PM
Is Harvey as bad as people think? I don't know much about college. I agree OT is a safe pick, but I have heard several times the draft is stacked with OT.
If that is true, why use it on an OT if we can get another OT in the 2nd that is a just as good. How is the draft on DE?
Posted by: pnthrfan | Mar 27, 2008 10:51:27 PM
no
Posted by: ROOPROOP | Mar 27, 2008 11:02:33 PM
No what???
Posted by: pnthrfan | Mar 27, 2008 11:05:00 PM
The guy rambling about Peppers ruining the salary cap has no idea what he is talking about. The final year of a contract is inflated on purpose to make room for a new contract. Once the deal is done -- there will be plenty for 'Pep's ' big new contract and some left over to sign the rookies.
LEARN SOME FOOTBALL FINANCE Geez.
Posted by: Brainiac | Mar 28, 2008 4:28:15 AM
Walter Jones - 6th overall 1997 Draft
Orlando Pace - 1st overall 1997 Draft
Johnathan Ogden - 4th overall 1996 Draft
Levi Jones - 10th overall 2002 Draft
Bryant McKinnie - 7th overall 2002 Draft
Jammal Brown - 13th overall 2005 Draft
Chris Samuels - 3rd overall 2000 Draft
D'Brickashaw Ferguson - 4th overall 2006 Draft
Jeff Backus - 18th overall 2001 Draft
William (Tra) Thomas - 11th overall 1998 Draft
Luke Petitgout - 19th overall 1999 Draft
Wayne Gandy - 15th overall 1995 Draft
Tarik Glenn - 19th overall 1997 Draft
Tony Boselli - 2nd overall 1995 Draft(before his shoulder problems killed his career was one of the most dominant LTs to play the game)
John Tait - 14th overall 1999 Draft (Has switched between LT and RT, but mostly a LT)
Todd Steussie - 18th overall 1994 Draft
Bob Whitfield - 8th overall 1992 Draft
Willie Roaf - 8th overall 1993 Draft
Brad Hopkins - 13th overall 1993 Draft
Bruce Armstrong - 23rd overall 1987 Draft (Anchored the Pats LT spot for more than a decade)
Richmond Webb - 9th overall 1990 Draft
Paul Gruber - 4th overall 1988 Draft
LT's are sure picks when it comes to a first round pick you can never go wrong with one. With a runningback thats a different story. Do you guys remember Tim Biakabutuka, with all his injuries he never really had a chance to do much with his career. Now where is he at? retired and selling jewelry in South Charlotte. Remember, Richmond Webb was a Left Tackle in his rookie class, and he became ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!!! IM MEAN REALLY AN OFFENSIVE LINEMAN GETTING ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!!! SERIOUSLY
Posted by: MVPMichael83 | Mar 28, 2008 6:19:46 AM
not a good idea.....we should take an OT int he first round and go for ray rice in a later round
Posted by: dDave | Mar 28, 2008 8:12:00 AM
If you want a true power back Owen Schmitt. The guy will get the tough yards and more. This could create an Alsott/Dunn like combo in Williams and Schmitt. TB had good playoof success with that combo and they had nothing near the passing game we should have.
Another short yardage great value pick will be Tashard Choice. The leading rusher in the ACC the past 2 years. He finds holes and has played in a Pro style running offense. He will get short yardage and turn 2-3 yds into 10-20 yds. He will not be a home run threat but could be a great change of pace runner we could get with one of those great picks we got from the Jets (that's sarcasm on the picks).
Posted by: Diehard | Mar 28, 2008 8:14:00 AM
Right on Shane good recon,I was wondering about it because it seems the most stand out players that Ive seen that are still solid and havent retired are lower draft picks at the Tackle position.I was waiting for someone to put a list like that together because Im to lazy honestly.
Although a few players on that list I wouldnt consider anchors or worth a first round for what they have produced,there is just as many players that have.I just have the feeling that the Panthers dont wont to spend first round money on the tackle position with as much money as they have tied up in it right now,not at 13 anywyas.The second I understand though.They still have Barry Sims on speed dial incase they change there plans on whatever they are going to do,thats why I feel they havent signed him yet,so they dont show there intentions.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 28, 2008 8:38:24 AM
We dont need a big back like mendhall hes not much bigger than deanglo williams and if we got the big RB that would be a Big 1st round draft pick that is wasted We need to get a OL of A DL.
Posted by: casey | Mar 28, 2008 8:40:24 AM
we need to get a OL or DL in the Draft if we get mendhall it will be a big first round draft pick thats going to be wasted. And if you brought in Labrandon Toefield from jacksonville what is the point in getting a new big back Ive seen Labrandon Toefield hes not a little RB.
Posted by: casey | Mar 28, 2008 8:43:06 AM
Shane any Idea of how many are starting at there respective positions currently in the NFL that arent 1st round picks?Offensive Tackles anyways
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 28, 2008 9:01:15 AM
I hope Randy is right (despite Procton's schoolmarm act) -- that this is a big head-fake towards Mendenhall, to freak out some people into trading up, should the time come.
If we have to trade up to get Clady at 10 or 11, I'd be thrilled. But if he's out of reach, I still want an LT, but I don't want Otah or Williams or any of the others at 13. And I guess in order to trade back, you have to use your interviews to scare teams into thinking you might take one of the guys they want.
Denver had a notable run there for a while of getting like five 1000 yard backs from second-day draft picks. How did they do it? By building a solid O-line.
Posted by: BullCityDog | Mar 28, 2008 9:48:47 AM
It's the divisional playoffs versus the Rams. Davis, who has rushed for over 1400 yards on the season, is injured. None the less, the Panthers have already tallied 200 rushing yards by the 4th quarter (70 of those coming from Foster). Minter intercepts a pass in Panther teritory. The Cats drive down the field into Rams' territory with a couple of brilliant receptions from Smith. The ball is on the 25 and Foster gets the ball, dances around and loses seven yars. Do Fox & Hurney put the ball in the air on 3rd and 14 to let the amazing Smith make the play??
Posted by: SYRPIS | Mar 28, 2008 10:42:51 AM
The answer is NO! It's yet another draw play on 3rd and long (something very common in the league, BTW). After destroying Panther momentum in the previous play and bring the Ram crowd back into the game, does Foster get shut down? The answer is NO again. Wow! How did the Foster of that year make that play, but struggled to do so since?? The answer is simple... Stussie, Mitchell, Gross, Donalley and even James do a exellent job getting off of the ball to push the defense backwards. Foster has only one tack to break 10 yards later to make the play and get the first down!
To sum up: 1)The Panthers do need to draft a good LT in the first round (and maybe another OT later) and 2)they are on the right track to bringing the team back to its former glory. The proof is in the pudding...
http://www.charlotte.com/panthers/story/556498.html
Posted by: SYRPIS | Mar 28, 2008 10:49:16 AM
Jeno James was a great guard for us that year. He was a BEAST when pulling and blocking for Davis on the off-tackle sweep.
Posted by: Michael Procton | Mar 28, 2008 11:16:12 AM
If we chose a RB with the first round pick... the Panthers are retards. We don't need to pick a complementary back when we actually have real needed positions that quality first round players will be available. This Mendenhall thing is ridiculous. Throw this crap fest out of here. And if you guys are actually supporting this BS, then you don't want to see the betterment of the team you want to see it stuck in its same old rut as usual.
Posted by: Nate | Mar 28, 2008 11:32:17 AM
Nate,I cant wait to hear of you starting your period,if the Panthers draft Mendenhall or trade down to select Felix Jones in the first.
Im done with this topic,some people just dont understand , hate simply because they dont like the 'Player " of the topic or because its not what they would do on there Madden video game.
See you guys next topic and Shane thanks for the info,along with you "Other" posters who actually contributed to this blog in a professional manner instead of just cried about it,while providing no facts for discussion.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 28, 2008 11:57:04 AM
Ghost, there are some current starting LTs who were second rounders (Flozell Adams, Matt Light, Marvel Smith, Michael Roos, Marcus McNeill, Khalif Barnes, Chad Clifton) and a few third rounders (Mike Gandy, Jonas Jennings)
The three lone exceptions to the rule that I can find CURRENTLY who were effective LTs who weren't drafted high or went undrafted at all are ...
Jason Peters - undrafted (played TE at Arkansas)
Matt Lepsis - undrafted (since retired)
David Diehl - 5th round ...
And some 1st, 2nd and 3rd rounders I left off because they haven't quite reached their potential yet ...
Vernon Carey - 1st rounder
Tony Ugoh - 2nd rounder
Alex Barron -1st round (will be LT in the future when Pace is done)
Then there's the stopgaps, players like Ephraim Salaam, Damien McIntosh and Barry Sims ...
That pretty much cover it for you, Ghost?
Posted by: Shane | Mar 28, 2008 1:26:29 PM
Yea ,it works shane even though a few ogf those like Pace Boselli and etc havent played in the league in a few years and some like Gallery and others are bust.It just goes to show you every pick is a risk and succsess can be had with OT in later rounds.Thanks for the info man.Now Im done with this thread.
Posted by: Ghost of Sparta | Mar 28, 2008 5:49:48 PM
Ghost, of the first rounders I've mentioned, these are the ones that have pretty much been obsolete or retired before 2007 ...
Tarik Glenn - 19th overall 1997 Draft
Tony Boselli - 2nd overall 1995 Draft(before his shoulder problems killed his career was one of the most dominant LTs to play the game)
Todd Steussie - 18th overall 1994 Draft
Bob Whitfield - 8th overall 1992 Draft
Willie Roaf - 8th overall 1993 Draft
Brad Hopkins - 13th overall 1993 Draft
Bruce Armstrong - 23rd overall 1987 Draft (Anchored the Pats LT spot for more than a decade)
Richmond Webb - 9th overall 1990 Draft
Paul Gruber - 4th overall 1988 Draft
Wayne Gandy was released, but he was a pretty solid left tackle a decade. Ogden is retired and Pace suffered a serious injury last season, so he may be done.
That still leaves about 10 or 11 current first rounder NFL starters at LT (not including Barron and Carey). Throw in the 7 second rounders who are starters and the two third rounders and that's 2/3 of the league who has a solid LT prospect in place.
Notice how every couple of years there's a run on LTs early in the draft? That's because the team's established LT is done and the team feels compelled to replace him with a 1st rounder. I'd say the success rate is pretty high though ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 28, 2008 6:18:52 PM
I think that drafting a running back in the first would be total breakdown. Its funny Ive been a fan of the Panthers since they started. I was born in Monroe, NC, raised on the outside of Charlotte. Now I live in NY and hardly get to see games. But all the the ones I did see (at bars, replays, and listening on sirius) almost every game the QB is on his back or the defense had to play the whole game, because we couldnt get a first down. My point is what in the world do you think another RB is gonna do thats just crazy. I heard the name A Peterson earlier well hats off to the man, but I must say there Oline wasnt shaby either. We definately are in desperate need of Oline help screw RB we have one if you have a good enough Oline anyone can run the ball
hell hand the rock to John Fox after the Oline is beefed up I bet he would get atlease 2 yards a cary. All yeah and on peppers give me a freaking brake he is the man I guess anyone would look bad if they had to stay on the field the whole game. Look at Dwight on colts yeah he is doubled and is still hard to guard right. But look how long he gets to sit. Our biggest issue is LT on offense DT and Corners/Saftey. Hell the ones that think we need a RB go back and watch some of this past seasons games you can pick anyone of them and see these needs. Ha David C thought he would go to Carolina and be safe haha didnt care for him anyway. Like Steve D do you really think he just went in there and just ran through and walked over peoples heads no he would bust up through the huge holes our Super Bowl Oline gave. Thanks for your time
peaceeeeeeeeeeee.
Posted by: jasawn | Mar 28, 2008 7:02:07 PM
Shane...Ugoh not quite up to his potential?? Without him the Colts probably would not have won the Superbowl without him and with the sudden retirement of Glenn. I would have to say so, he came in and has played well from the get go.
Posted by: rhackney | Mar 29, 2008 11:53:02 AM
If Ryan Clady is off the board by pick 13 i hope the panthers draft Rashard Mendenhall, he would be the perfect 1-2 punch with D-Will. If they do take Mendenhall they can always get a tackle in the second round some one like Sam Baker or Gosder Cherilus who the panthers are said to really like.
Posted by: KJ | Mar 29, 2008 11:54:57 AM
rhackney,
Yes, I did say Ugoh hasn't reached his full potential, because he was a ROOKIE last year!
Yes, he had success, but he does have room for improvement, RIGHT?
That's what I meant by he hasn't reached his full potential. We've only seen the tip of the iceberg as far as Ugoh AND JOE THOMAS are concerned.
Posted by: Shane | Mar 29, 2008 12:35:18 PM
If Mendenhall drops that far to us and clady and Ellis are gone, then I would think that they pick him up. Although I was not impressed by clady's football intelligence. I know it probably doesnt mean much, but if your gonna play football in the NFL, shouldnt you at least have some football intelligence. Just a thought. Hope the Panthers do what is best for the team thats all.
Posted by: Ivan | Mar 29, 2008 4:27:09 PM
Well it's nice to so many people interested in the draft for the cats, I personally am one of those "mock draft sheep" that Stroke Ace called us. You know actually reading about the draft and why that analyst think that. Hey Stroker, thats called analyzing and then make your own informed decision. And I think, that if you check all the panthers draft pics since Fox has been here, they drafted defense except one. Thats 5 to 1. So my personal opionion (not because someone told me so) is that the top of the draft has some great LT,s, but that the panthers will go with DE to bolster the other side so Peppers can get back to form. Of course, it's just my opinion.
Posted by: Rick | Mar 30, 2008 4:08:55 AM
Big Ten backs always excel in the NFL. Just ask us. Take Mendenhall, the one year wonder
Posted by: Tim Biakabutuka & Kijana Carter | Mar 30, 2008 1:29:46 PM
Rick, the Panthers have draft TWO offensive players since Fox became coach ...
Jordan Gross and DeAngelo Williams ...
Please do us all a favor and check your facts before you submit an opinion ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 30, 2008 6:31:26 PM
Drafted, rather ...
Posted by: Shane | Mar 30, 2008 7:29:49 PM
deangelo profile shows 5" 9" 217
Mendenhall 5" 11" and 210....
so what makes the second a power back vs. the first?
Posted by: skeet skeet | Mar 30, 2008 8:38:52 PM
Skeet,
This is ya boy. Check out Mendenhall's highlights on youtube or rivals.com. You'll see why he is the best back in the draft.
Hooty Hoo!!!!
Posted by: Brainiac | Mar 31, 2008 5:35:53 AM
I think Mendenhall would be a great pick for the Panthers but they need another pass rusher to take some pressure off of Peppers and to make up for Kris Jenkins. Now although Mendenhall is a great RB there's another guy in the draft by the name of Jonathan Stewart who will be a beast once he is over the injury. He could bring the power that Stephen Davis had when he led the Panthers to the Super Bowl a few years back...Basically the O-line has been beefed up by free agency and there are great tackles that can be taken in the later rounds of the draft. But RB is a need for Carolina whether its Mendenhall or Stewart and it should be addressed early in the draft. I think a safety should be looked at on the first day also and then a DL.
Posted by: devin | Mar 31, 2008 6:59:06 AM
It doesn't matter he's a STEELER NOW!!!!!!! YES YES YES!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Tyrone | Apr 27, 2008 9:00:22 AM
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