Inside the Panthers

Trade Travelle? Not likely

   Received this question from "mh" via e-mail with the request to post as a blog ...

   Q: "Since the Panthers seem to have depth at OL and LB, do you think they would make a trade offer to the Dolphins for Taylor if he was willing to rework his contract? The fins need help on the OL so how about a Travelle Wharton for Taylor trade?"

   Don't think the Panthers would be interested in trading for Taylor and don't think the Dolphins would take anything less than a first- or second-round pick. Carolina certainly wouldn't give that up. As far as trading Travelle Wharton, no way. He was recently signed to a big, new contract and the team is excited about moving him to left guard now that they've got Jeff Otah to pair with Jordan Gross at tackle.

   (EXTRA, EXTRA: By the way, we and some other media outlets referred to Otah as Jeffrey in pre-draft coverage. We'll be changing that to Jeff now. When asked Sunday at his news conference at Bank of America Stadium what he prefers to be called, he said basically everybody calls him Jeff except his mother. She calls him Jeffrey.)

-- Charles Chandler

An updated defensive depth chart

   The signings of veteran defensive tackles Darwin Walker and Ian Scott today give a big boost to the look of the Panthers' defensive depth chart. There was a glaring weakness of depth at defensive tackle immediately after the draft, but now that's been addressed.

   So here's how the defensive depth chart looks today. As you'll see, the Panthers are especially deep at linebacker after the surprising selection of Penn State's Dan Connor in the third round.

 

   DT -- Maake Kemoeatu, Ian Scott, Nick Hayden

   DT -- Damione Lewis, Darwin Walker

   DE -- Julius Peppers, Stanley McClover

   DE -- Charles Johnson, Tyler Brayton, Hilee Taylor

   MLB -- Jon Beason, Dan Connor, Landon Johnson, Adam Seward

   SLB -- Thomas Davis, Adam Seward, James Anderson, Tim Shaw

   WLB -- Landon Johnson, Na'il Diggs, Dan Connor

   CB -- Ken Lucas, Richard Marshall

   CB -- Chris Gamble, Ricardo Colclough, Dante Wesley

   SS -- Chris Harris, Nate Salley

   FS -- Charles Godfrey, Terrence Holt

 

-- Charles Chandler

DTs Walker, Scott signed to contracts

    The Carolina Panthers took a huge step towards strengthening the front four of their defense today when they signed veteran free agent  defensive tackles Darwin Walker and Ian Scott.

Walker's signing was expected; he simply had to clear a Carolina  physical today. But the addition of Scott as well solidifies what will  likely be a four-man rotation at the position, along with holdovers  Maake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis.

    "We had a chance to get two veteran defensive tackles," Panthers  general manager Marty Hurney said today. "You bring experience and  talent into the mix with both of them. Obviously, we feel very good  and fortunate to have been able to sign them."

    Both players battled injuries last year, but both passed Carolina  physicals.

    Walker, who is 6-foot-3 and 295 pounds and who will be 31 in June,  has the higher NFL profile.  He has 28.5 career sacks and has had six  or more in three different seasons. Sacks are much harder for inside players to accumulate than for defensive ends.

    "Darwin has the ability to rush the passer; he's a very good player inside," Hurney said. "Both of them are very good inside."

    Scott, 26, has good size as well at 6-6 and 302 pounds.  He played in 49 games with 33 starts with the Chicago Bears from 2003 to 2006.  He was signed as an unrestricted free agent by Philadelphia last year, but was placed on injured reserve before the start of the season with a knee injury.

    A fourth-round draft pick in 2003, Scott had 155 tackles, two sacks, and one interception with the Bears.

    "Ian's a guy we have always liked," Hurney said. "We had been talking (with his agent) for some time."

      Part of Carolina's lure for both players was being able to play closer to home. Walker is from Walterboro, S.C., while Scott is from Greenville, S.C.

-- Stan Olson

Panthers Add DT Ian Scott

        The Panthers just announced the signing of not only DT Darwin Walker, 
which was expected, but also DT Ian Scott, whom they had had 
discussions with in the past. Scott, who is 6-foot-6 and 302 pounds, 
played in 49 games with 33 starts with the Chicago Bears
from 2003 to 2006.  He was signed as an unrestricted free agent by
Philadelphia last year, but was placed on injured reserve before the 
start
of the season with a knee injury.
        Seems like they're bringing back the homeboys; Scott is from 
Greenville, S.C., while Walker is from Walterboro, S.C.--STAN OLSON

Kiper on Panthers: Best on Day 2

  ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. says he would have given the Carolina Panthers an "A" grade for their picks last weekend if they hadn't given up a 2009 first round pick to acquire Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah with the 19th selection this year. So he gave them a "B" instead.

   Speaking Monday on a conference call with reporters from around the country, Kiper said the Panthers' talent takeaway was comparable to that of the Kansas City Chiefs, whose draft class has been widely hailed as the best in the league.

   Kiper said the Panthers had "arguably the best draft of anybody out there had it not been such a steep price to pay (for Otah). I don't like going into next year without a first round pick. ... (But) overall, they brought in more good players than just about any team, including Kansas City."

   Kiper said the Panthers' picks on Sunday in Rounds 3-7 were the best in the league.

   He compared fifth-rounder Gary Barnidge, a tight end from Louisville, to former Dallas Cowboys TE Jay Novacek.

   "I think (third-round pick) Charles Godfrey can play corner or safety," said Kiper. "He's a very good pickup. I thought he was the best player available on Day 2.

   "Dan Connor (Penn State linebacker and third-round pick), we all know about him. I think (sixth-round pick) Nick Hayden will make it as a defensive tackle. (Seventh-round defensive end) Hilee Taylor had a great year at North Carolina. (Seventh-round Oregon tackle) Geoff Schwartz, at one point in time I thought he could be a fourth- or fifth-round pick. (Seventh-round guard Mackenzy) Bernadeau from Bentley will make the team and could be a starter down the road.

   "They did the best job on Day 2. There's no question."

   Kiper was also high on the Panthers' Day 1 picks -- Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart, the 13th selection, and Otah.

   He said of Stewart: "The only issue with him is durability. He's a powerhouse runner. He attacks defenders. He's not a guy who's going to go out of bounds or go down. He's going to battle for everything. He's had some injury problems. But for a one-two punch with DeAngelo Williams, it certainly makes sense."

   On Otah: "They got him at 19. You're looking at a guy who a lot of people thought could go 12 or 13 very easily. ... They gave up next year's first-round pick and some other picks. It was a steep price to pay. But I think they really feel they want to win now. We know about the whole situation with this coaching staff. The pressure's on to win this year and what can happen with Bill Cowher lurking out there."
 
   -- Charles Chandler

Walker can fill role Jenkins once did

If defensive tackle Darwin Walker, who agreed to terms today with the Panthers, can play at close to the ability he showed during his days in Philadelphia, Carolina's defensive front will be far more formidable. 

Walker has 28.5 sacks, a large number for an inside guy, where sacks  are tougher to come by. That statistic shows that at his best, he can be a disruptive force inside.

The now traded Kris Jenkins was once that kind of player, and  Carolina desperately needs someone to not only be strong against the run but to explode the pocket from time to time. Maybe Walker can be  that guy. -- Stan Olson

Walker not quite a Panther yet

While reports almost everywhere, including our own, were announcing that defensive tackle Darwin Walker had signed with the Panthers, the sides have not inked the contract. What they do have is an agreement on terms. Walker is expected in town Tuesday to take a physical, and if he passes that, the deal will be completed.

He’s almost certain to pass and become a Panther, but technically, he’s not one yet. Just wanted to clarify that after mushing it up.

-- Stan Olson

Panthers announce 10 signings

    The Panthers just released this list of signed free agents:
    They have reached agreements with 10 free agents, including
defensive end Casper Brinkley of South Carolina and tight end Chris 
Conklin of Wingate.

Free agent agreements:

Casper Brinkley                     DE                        South Carolina
Chris Conklin                       TE                        Wingate
Cortney Grixby                      CB                        Nebraska
Breyone Evans                       FB                       Massachusetts
Joseph Fiedls                       FS                        Syracuse
Brandon Jenkins                     DT                     Mississippi
Damon Morton                        WR                     Colorado State
Taylor Tharp                        QB                        Boise State
Darren Toney                        CB                        Arkansas State
Dan Ziedman                          P                        Idaho State

Each player will have to pass a physical and sign a contract before
participating in the start of mini-camp Friday.

Panthers sign Syracuse S Fields

    As was pointed out by one of our posters, the Panthers have also signed free agent safety Joe Fields of Syracuse today. He joins the guys we have already listed, with more to come this afternoon.

    A 2007 all-Big East second team selection, Fields finished the season tied for sixth in the league with 8.1 tackles per game. He had 97 tackles, including 53 solo stops, and four interceptions and one fumble recovery. Fields started 25 consecutive games in the secondary after moving to free safety from quarterback before the 2006 season.

-- Stan Olson

Some early free agent signees emerge

    The Panthers are already signing free agents to fill out their training camp roster, among them tight end Chris Conklin from nearby Wingate.

    Conklin earned first team All-South Atlantic Conference honors in 2007, for the second year in a row. He led South Atlantic Conference tight ends with 30 catches for 446 yards and 10 touchdowns. His TDs were the most of any SAC receiver (WR, TE, RB) this year.

    The others that we've heard about so far include a quarterback, Taylor Tharp of Boise State, along with wide receiver Damon Morton of Colorado State and Cortney Grixby, a cornerback from Nebraska.

    Tharp became the Boise State starter as a senior, leading the team to its surprising 10-3 season. He completed 289 of 423 passes (68.3 percent), with 30 scores and just 11 intercepts. He's 6-2 and 210 
pounds, and runs a 4.9 40. He gives Carolina, which already has three quarterbacks on its roster, a needed extra body for off-season workouts and training camp.

    Morton, who is 5-10 and 176 pounds, also returns kicks, averaged 19.4 yards a catch as a senior. He had 40 catches, including six for TDs. For his career, he averaged 21 yards on kickoff returns and 8.9 on
punts, and returned a punt for a score in 2006. Snubbed by the NFL Scouting Combine as well as the Senior Bowl, he opened eyes with a  4.38 40 at his pro day.

    Grixby (5-9, 170) was a three-time honorable mention All-Big 12 selection. A starter at corner for three seasons, he was also a  successful return man, averaging 24.3 on kickoffs in 2007. He had 147  career tackles, and 32 pass breakups.

    Carolina will announce more signees later today.

--STAN OLSON

Panthers find last pick at D-II Bentley

The Panthers' final draft pick was just about as obscure as you can get: Offensive guard Mackenzy Bernardeau of Division II Bentley (Mass.). He made history for his school, becoming the first player in Falcons history to be drafted.

Bernardeau (6-4, 298 pounds) was a D-II All-American, despite injuring his knee midway through the season.

-- David Scott

Panthers grab Stewart's blocker

For the middle of their three seventh-round picks, and No.. 241 overall, Carolina selected 6-foot-7, 335-pound offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz, who blocked for the Panthers’ first pick, Jonathan Stewart, at Oregon.

One reason he slipped this far in the draft is a back injury he suffered in college. He had back surgery for a herniated disk after the 2006 season, forcing him to miss spring practice. He also slipped on the boards because of inconsistent technique.

--Stan Olson

Panthers pick up Tar Heel

The Panthers made the first of their three seventh-round picks their first North Carolina player since Julius Peppers, choosing outside linebacker Hilee Taylor.

Taylor, who is just under 6-foot-3 and 236 pounds, would likely have to play linebacker with the Panthers, and is the appropriate size to do that. He is not particularly fast, with 4.76-second 40-yard speed, but did have 10.5 sacks as a senior.

-- Stan Olson

Lions finally call on Moore

Kenneth Moore apparently wasn’t too high on the Detroit Lions’ priority list before the NFL draft. The Lions didn’t have Moore’s phone number Sunday afternoon after they made him their fifth-round pick. But after tracking down a number for him, they were able to let Moore know they had chosen him as the 136th overall pick in the draft.

Moore, who played at Butler High and Wake Forest, said the Lions want him to be kick returner and compete for a receiver position. They’re already deep at that spot with Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams.

"I never talked to (the Lions)," said Moore, whose 98 receptions last season for the Deacons were an ACC record. "So this was pretty much of a surprise."

Other players with Carolinas connections drafted Sunday:

DaJuan Morgan, free safety , Kansas City (third round/82nd pick): Former N.C. State player should give Chiefs immediate help on special teams.

Jeremy Thompson, defensive end, Green Bay (4/102): Former Wake Forest and Charlotte Christian player will need to bulk up to improve run-stopping abilities. Fast enough to be effective pass rusher.

Dre Moore, defensive tackle, Tampa Bay (4/115): Former Independence High and Maryland player should give Bucs immediate help on their defensive line.

Corey Lynch, safety, Cincinnati (6/177): Former Appalachian State state player might make the team as a special teams player. Has great knack for blocking kicks and punts.

Steve Justice, center, Indianapolis (6/201): Former Wake Forest player can learn at the feet of Jeff Saturday, who’s firmly entrenched at the position.

-- David Scott

Combine strong men

Straight from NFL.com ... Here are the top performers in the bench press at the combine. Note Mr. Hayden high on the list.

Hayden on Hayden

Sixth-round pick Nick Hayden just held a conference call with reporters.

He was asked to describe his strengths and weaknesses.

"My strength is my strength," said Hayden, noting that he had 34 bench press repetitions of 225 pounds at the combine.

That's seriously strong.

-- Charles Chandler

Finally, a DT

The sixth-round pick (181 overall) is Wisconsin's Nick Hayden (6-4, 291, 5.24 40).

He had 132 tackles for loss and 10 sacks during his college career.

He's known as a real effort player, but doesn't rate highly in athletic ability, according to scouts. Very durable, starting 39 consecutive games.

The Panthers have virtually no depth at defensive tackle, so he'll be a backup at least for now, until the Panthers sign a DT or two in free agency.

-- Charles Chandler

Gearing up for Round 6 pick

Almost time for the Panthers to pick again. If you can predict this one, you need to go to work with Mel!

-- Charles Chandler

Josh Johnson to Tampa Bay

Very intriguing fifth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Bucs, taking San Diego quarterback Josh Johnson.

Coach Jon Gruden loves to collect quarterbacks and Johnson has a tremendous upside if he can make the adjustment from the non-scholarship Pioneer League to the NFL. He got off to a good start by being named offensive MVP of the East-West Shrine all-star game, when he played mostly against major college players.

It's been said that players at small schools must dominate at that level to show they can make a big move up in competition. Well, Johnson threw for 43 touchdowns and ONE interception last season.

I think it was Houston Texans' coach Gary Kubiak who said that would be hard to do against air.

If Johnson is as good as the Bucs hope, he could be a real headache for the Panthers in the NFC South in future seasons. He runs the 40 in about 4.5 seconds, giving him excellent mobility, but he's definitely a pass-first quarterback. He led the nation last season in passing efficiency.

-- Charles Chandler

It's a TE

At 141, the Panthers take Louisville tight end Gary Barnidge. He's more of a pass catcher than a blocker.

Hurney: Connor too good to pass up

So why did the Panthers take a linebacker with their 74th pick (third round) when they had so many other obvious needs? They did though, grabbing Penn State's Dan Connor.

"It's just like (center) Ryan Kalil last year," said general manager Marty Hurney today. "Dan was just too high on our draft board to pass up."

The Panthers plan to initially use Connor as a backup to Jon Beason at middle linebacker, but the Carolina brass said that Connor can also play the outside positions.

"We were surprised that (Connor) was still up there (on their draft board)," Hurney said. The Charlotte Observer's top 100 had him listed as the No. 40 talent available.

"We all have the same philosophy; that you can't go wrong picking good football players," Hurney said.

When someone asked about the Panthers' need of defensive linemen at that point, coach John Fox said, "The D-line there was pretty much like safety last year. It's sometimes just the way it falls."

Carolina had wanted to draft a safety a year ago, but never saw one of appropriate value in their slots.-- Stan Olson

Finally, the 5th Round is here

It's been a long wait since the early third round, but it's almost time for the Panthers to pick again .

Minnesota just made the 137th pick, taking Southern Cal QB John David Booty.

Carolina chooses 141st.

Only one player remains from the Observer's Top 100 -- Boise State CB Orlando Scandrick (82).

The Panthers might not take another DB unless it's a straight value pick.

Here's an intriguing possibility: FB Owen Schmitt of West Virginia. He's the top-rated pure fullback in the draft and is an excellent lead blocker. He'd add to the physical, tough, power-football mantra of this draft for the Panthers.

-- Charles Chandler

Dre Moore In NFC South

Maryland DT Dre Moore of Charlotte's Independence High goes to the Panthers' NFC South rival Tampa Bay with the 115th overall pick.

So Carolina will have to play against him -- provided he makes the team. Moore has a huge upside, but there's a reason he didn't go until the middle of the fourth round.

-- Charles Chandler

Panthers call caught tackle off guard

Offensive tackle Jeff Otah, Carolina's massive second first-round pick (No.19 overall) just met with the media at the stadium.

Otah said he was delighted to be a Panther, and expected for some time that he would be.

"It was good that (coach John Fox) came up there (to Pittsburgh's Pro Dya) and brought everybody with him," Otah said. "I felt real comfortable with them. And I liked the idea of playing in North Carolina."

Otah expected to be taken by Carolina with the first-round's 13th pick, and was disappointed when the Panthers took Jonathan Stewart instead.

"I didn't get a phone call, so I was thinking, 'well, alright, who's next?'" Otah said.

Then the Panthers did call at No.19.

"I was thinking, 'Aren't the Eagles picking?'" he said. "I figured it was a prank call. They said, 'You don't sound so excited," but then they put coach Fox on and I knew his voice."

Otah, at 6-6 and about 330 pounds, is the last piece of a revamped and powerful offensive line. He'll likely start on the right side, with Jordan Gross moving back to the left. -- Stan Olson

Not many D-Line options

It's easy to look at the Dan Conner pick by the Panthers and say they blew it, that they should've taken a defensive tackle because they have only two on their roster with experience.

In a vacuum, that's true.

But the reality is that after Glenn Dorsey, Sedrick Ellis and Kentwan Balmer in the first round, this was a very weak draft for defensive tackles.

Just take a look at the third round ...The only ones picked were Auburn's Pat Sims, No. 77 to Cincinnati and Marcus Harrison No. 90 to Chicago. Toss Harrison out from Carolina's perspective because he's had some serious off-the-field problems.

Sims isn't exactly a standout player either. He went with the 77th overall pick and was ranked 85th in the Observer's Top 100.

Connor, however, was rated 40th and Carolina got him at No. 76. We've learned that the Panthers had a low first-round to early second-round grade on Conner.

Other DTs still on the board after 100 overall picks included Marlyand's Dre Moore and Texas A&M's Joseph Bryant.

This is not intended to give the Panthers a pat on the back, but to try to bring some reality to the discussion.

It's simply not a good year for DTs in the draft. Don't forget about Attiyah Ellison, a third round pick as a DT in 2005. That was also a bad year for DTs and Ellison never even made the 53-man regular season roster.

-- Charles Chandler

Pick goes full circle

The draft churns up all kinds of oddities.

Baltimore's second-round pick was originally No.71, but the Ravens traded it on to Jacksonville.

Then the Jaguars swapped it to Buffalo. Who finally sent the selection back to Baltimore again. Where it started.

The Ravens grabbed linebacker Tavares Gooden of Miami, No.83 on The Observer list. -- Stan Olson

A head-scratcher for Conner

Penn State LB Dan Conner just said on a media conference call that he's a bit "shocked" to be picked by the Panthers, a team that didn't appear to have a need at his position.

However, he said he was excited about learning from the Panthers' veteran linebackers.

It will probably take Conner some time to come to grips with what's happened in recent weeks. He was once viewed as a first-round pick, but wound up going into the third to a team that already has four starting-caliber LBs -- MLB Jon Beason and OLBs Thomas Davis, Na'il Diggs and Landon Johnson.

Again, it was a value pick for the Panthers. He was way too high on their board to pass up and they'll find a place for him if he's as good as they think.

This probably means farewell to Adam Seward, whom New England likely will get at no cost after considering giving up a fifth-round pick to Carolina. Seward was a restricted free agent who visited the Patriots in March.

-- Charles Chandler

Penn State linebacker irresistible to Panthers

     The Carolina Panthers used their second third-round pick on, of all things, a linebacker, possibly the last position Carolina needed to address. But the team thinks of this selection as a "value pick," a talent who has dropped so far down draft boards as to be irresistible.

     The guy is Penn State's Dan Connor, who was chosen No.74 overall but was 40th in The Observer's top 100. As such, the Panthers' brain trust couldn't resist, on the theory that a team can never have too many good players.

     And Connor, the Chuck Bednarik winner as the nation's best linebacker, became a Panther. -- Stan Olson

Value, value, value

What did the Panthers need with an LB, you say?

Well, remember Ryan Kalil last year. They didn't need a center then either.

Taking Penn State's Dan Conner at pick No. 74 clearly is an example of the Panthers having a player so high on their board that they couldn't pass him up for a need-based pick.

Conner was the highest rated player in the Observer's Top 100 coming into Day 2. He ranked 40th overall, so the Panthers got great value.

He figures to provide depth and perhaps make James Anderson and/or Adam Seward expendable.

-- Charles Chandler

More on Godfrey ...

DB Charles Godfrey is 6-0, 207, tough and fast. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds at the combine and 4.33 at Iowa's Pro Day workout.

He has played some at safety and clearly projects to free safety.

He started 25 games in college at right cornerback, two at strong safety and one at free safety.

He shut down receivers last season. Players he guarded caught just 15 passes for 117 yards (17.8 ypr) and no touchdowns.

--  Charles Chandler

Panthers add a DB, special teamer

The Panthers just picked Iowa DB/special teamer Charles Godfrey. He's likely to play free safety and is know as a hard  hitter.

There were plenty of solid DBs on the board here, so this is a good pick. Obviously, they chose Godrey over N.C. State's DaJuan Morgan. Godfrey played CB in college and likely will be asked to switch positions.

Panthers are picking again soon, at No. 74. DT there?

-- Charles Chandler

Looking ahead to Round 3 ,,,

We'll have an extensive list of possible third-round picks for the Panthers in tomorrow's paper and, of course, online once it posts.

But here's a quick guess for the 67th and 74th picks: N.C. State free safety DaJuan Morgan and Maryland defensive tackle Dre Moore.

Great being with you today, folks. We'll be back bloggin' again tomorrow.

So long until then.

-- Charles Chandler

Team officials surprised by Round 1 feast

As much as the Carolina Panthers drew up scenerios before the draft -- and they did a bunch of them -- reality was better than they ever imagined.

Panthers officials didn't expect they'd be able to come away with Jonathan Stewart AND Jeffrey Otah. But they did.

Now, they wait to find out if the players are as good as they think.

If the other first-round picks in the John Fox-Marty Hurney are an indication, they'll be just fine. So far, they're six for six in picking solid players in Round 1.

Selections in the second round and beyond haven't gone so well, however.

Hey, there's another reason for making the trade for the second first-rounder today: At least they won't mess up another Round 2 pick. (Sorry, I couldn't resist!)

-- Charles Chandler

Panthers hit phones hard for Otah

Here's how much the Panthers wanted Pitt OT Jeffrey Otah:

Immediately after selecting  RB Jonathan Stewart with the 13th pick, the Panthers started calling teams to inquire about acquring another first-round pick.

They started with Chicago at No. 14 and called every team between there and getting a deal done for the No. 19 selection with Philadelphia.

It was a dream scenerio for Carolina. Team officials didn't expect Otah to last that long in the first round. The price was steep, but they figure they got two first-round picks by using two first-round picks (this year's and next year's) plus a second- and fourth-rounder this year.

-- Charles Chandler

Why Stewart over Mendenhall? Panthers explain ...

A lot of rankings and mock drafts had running back Rashard Mendenhall ranked ahead of fellow running back Jonathan Stewart, but Carolina took Stewart with its first pick.

Asked why the team preferred Stewart to Mendenhall, college scouting director Don Gregory said, "Both are very good backs. I think one brings just a little bit more power; (Stewart) is more compact. A Jamaal Lewis type, that type of compact power, able to bounce off tackles. I think for trying to be a power football team he was a better fit." -- STAN OLSON

Divine Intervention?

Earlier this week, I received a voice mail message from a friend who pastors a large local church.

He's a big NFL fan and wanted me to know about a dream he had. He said he received a phone call from me telling him the Panthers had selected Jonathan Stewart as their first-round pick.

"I don't know what that means," he said, "but you might want to consider it when you're doing your draft coverage."

I returned his call and asked him if he thought the information was prophetic.

"It's either prophetic or pathetic," he said.

Now we know.

-- Charles Chandler

Stan and Coach Fox

There was a great moment in the press conference earlier today when we were discussing the price of the 2009 first-round pick the Panthers  had to give up to move from the 43rd selection in the second round to Philadelphia's first-rounder at No. 19.

GM Marty Hurney said it's not something the team would normally do, but showed how much the Panthers valued the player they took at 19, Pitt OT Jeffrey Otah.

Our man Stan Olson suggested to Fox that it'd be a better deal if next year's pick turns out to be No. 32 overall. That's the last pick in the first round and annually goes to the Super Bowl champion.

Fox smiled and replied, "That would be right up my alley."

-- Charles Chandler

Double dippin' in Round 1

The Panthers move to trade next year's first-round pick to get back into the first round this year for big OT Jeffrey Otah is reminiscent of last year when Cleveland picked LT Joe Thomas early then traded a future No. 1 to get quarterback Brady Quinn.

The Browns viewed Quinn as a future first-rounder. They figured they had an opportunity to get a franchise quarterback, which is something they'd do with a No. 1 pick a year later anyway.

Ditto for the Panthers. GM Marty Hurney said it's rare to have the chance to get a premier offensive tackle. Since it's something  Carolina might have wanted to do next year anyway, they went ahead and sprung for the deal now.

The Panthers landing Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart at 13 and Otah at 19 in the first round is the type of bold move this organization needed to to revitalize a team that's lacked energy the past two seasons.

Stewart and Otah fit together almost  perfectly. Otah is known as a mauler who can clear out defenders in the running  game. Stewart is a tough inside runner who not only can bull his way for yards but also can get free with his speed.

-- Charles Chandler

Stewart says he'll be ready for training camp ...

The interview with Panthers top pick Jonathan Stewart (running back) is just now closing, and Stewart told the assembled media in Bank of America Stadium (on a conference call) that despite recent surgery for turf toe, he would be ready to go for training camp.

Stewart said he had surgery on the toe Mar. 12 and should start doing his rehabilitation within a week. The surgery was done by Panthers doctor Robert Anderson.

Stewart said the toe caused him considerable pain last season, and limited his ability to cut at times.

Asked if he had seen DeAngelo Williams, the running back he’ll likely share time with on the Panthers, run, Stewart laughed and said, "I watched DeAngelo when he was tearing it up (in college) at Memphis." STAN OLSON

Panthers take calculated gamble ...

The Panthers took a calculated gamble in trading back into the first round to grab Pitt offensive tackle Jeff Otah.

Carolina had to give Philadelphia its second and fourth picks from this draft and its No. 1 in 2009, but the Panthers’ braintrust felt like it was worth doing.

But the team wound up with two of the draft’s top 20 picks, grabbing running back Jonathan Stewart at No. 13 and Otah six picks later.

"At 13 we had a handful of guys (on our board) and after 10 we had a good feeling that one of them was going to be there," general manager Marty Hurney said a few minutes ago. "We took Jonathan Stewart, who we just think is an excellent back and coupled with DeAngelo gives us two very good running backs.

"As we went down, our plan was, if there were certain players left, to try to trade back up into the first round and get one of them. We thought Otah was a big, physical, offensive tackle. And just felt like you don’t have a lot of opportunities to get players like him.

"We made several calls as we went down and when we got to Philadelphia, we were able to make the deal."

Coach John Fox said Otah would likely start out at right tackle. That would shift Jordan Gross to the left side and enable Travelle Wharton to move from left tackle to left guard.

The moves – along the free agent-signing of a number of big guards, guarantee that Carolina’s line will be much bigger and more physical than last year’s unit. – STAN OLSON

Now that's impressive ...

How about this Carolina fans? Your team just added ultra-big OT Jeff Otah to big, strong, powerful RB Jonathan Stewart. They are truly serious about getting more physical on offense next season.

The Panthers traded up from the No. 43 position in the second round with the Philadelphia Eagles to get the 19th overall pick. But it was expensive. Carolina gave up the 43rd pick, their fourth-rounder this year (109 overall) and their first-rounder next year.

It was a solid move getting out of the Round 2 No. 43 pick. That was a great spot if they wanted to get a running back, provided they got DE Derrick Harvey in Round 1. But since Harvey went early and the Panthers already got their a RB in getting Jonathan Stewart with the 13th pick, they no  longer needed an RB.

Otah, however, gives them a huge OL. ... Check out this lineup on the OL for next season.

LT -- Jordan Gross; LG -- Travelle Wharton; C -- Ryan Kalil; RG -- Either Jeremy Bridges or Keydrick Vincent; RT -- Otah.

That has the potential to be the best offensive line in team history. Seriously.

But giving up that first-round pick next year is pricey.

-- Charles Chandler

Gosder's gone

Well, the Panthers won't be trading up for Gosder Cherilus. The Detroit Lions just picked him with the 17th selection. Wonder how far Pitt OT Jeff Otah falls? If he gets in range, Carolina could trade up to get him. Or UNC DT Kentwan Balmer. Or Miami (Fla.) FS Kenny Phillips. Or Clemson DE Phillip Merling.

-- Charles Chandler

Chiefs hit the jackpot

The Chiefs' war room is as happy as can be. Everything fell just right for them. They get the No. 1 player in the draft, DT Glenn Dorsey, with the No. 5 pick, then get the player they might have taken at 5 if Dorsey had been gone -- Virginia OL Branden Albert -- with the 15th pick. Good move by the Chiefs to move up two spots, trading with Detroit to go from 17 to 15, to make sure they got Albert.

A-plus day so far for KC.

-- Charles Chandler

Looking ahead to Round 2

It's early yet, but the Panthers options with their second-round pick should be defensive end, offensive tackle, free safety, or possibly tight end.

Another option could be trading up into the latter part of the first round to take Boston College OT Gosder Cherilus or UNC DT Kentwan Balmer.

Here's a breakdown of those positions and players likely to be available:

DE -- Lawrence Jackson, USC. (I'm guessing he's the pick if he's there); Calais Campbell, Miami, Fla.; Quentiin Groves, Auburn

OT -- Sam Baker, USC; Duane Brown, Va. Tech.

FS -- Kenny Phillips, Miami (probably off the board by then); Tyrell Johnson, Ark. State (also probably gone); DaJuan Morgan, N.C. State (this may be too early for him).

TE -- Fred Davis, USC (maybe they don't want a Trojan); Dustin Keller, Purdue (probably gone)

I'm guessing either trade up for Cherilus or Balmer, or DE Lawrence Jackson.

-- Charles Chandler

You're gonna love this guy ...

Jonathan Stewart is your pick, Panthers fans.

The Carolina offense just changed dramatically. He's a big, strong, powerful back.

I'm guessing he starts from Day 1 if he's healthy.

This has a chance to be one of the best picks in Panthers' history. Stewart has a chance to be the NFL rookie of the year, seriously.

-- Charles

Panthers on the clock ...

With the 13th pick in the NFL draft, the Carolina Panthers select ...

We've all been waiting for this moment, now it's here!

With Clady going to Denver at 12, here are our thoughts:

STAN -- Got to be Stewart.

CHARLES -- Ditto.

One to go ...

OK, only one pick before the Panthers are on the board.

Denver should go with either an OT, Ryan Clady, Chris Williams or Branden Albert, or a RB, Jonathan Stewart or Rashard Mendenhall. ... Word is it's between Clady and Stewart.

Panthers anxiously await the answer.

I'm guessing Clady to the Broncos, then Stewart to the Panthers.

-- Charles Chandler

Harvey's gone!

    STAN: Ouch! This one hurts the Panthers. Jacksonville just grabbed Derrick Harvey, the DE Carolina was so high on. My thoughts here are to swing to RB, and that would likely mean Jonathan Stewart, a load who would be a big help to DeAngelo Alexander.

CHARLES: I agree, Stan. ... But it's no guarantee Stewart will be there either. Cincinnati is picking next and supposedly either wants LB Keith Rivers or an RB. Yesterday, word was they liked Rashard Mendenhall, but Stewart's possible. Also, New England could trade down again from the 10th spot and so could Buffalo at 11th. Then, Denver picks 12th and they'll likely take either an OT or Stewart. ... So hang on folks, these picks are gonna be interesting ... Rest assured, this is a nervous time in the Panthers' war room.

Watch out Harvey watchers

Good move by the Saints to trade up for DT Sedrick Ellis. He'll do wonders for their run defense.

Now, the Ravens are looking to trade down from the No. 8 spot. Mike Mayock just said on NFL Network that Jacksonville wants to move up there to get DE Derrick Harvey. It would toss water on the Panthers plans to draft Harvey.

But for Baltimore, it's a good deal. They want a QB and they can get Chad Henne, Joe Flacco or Brian Brohm at the Jaguars' No. 26 position.

-- Charles Chandler

Now, things get interesting ...

OK, the Jets just picked Vernon Gholston and New England is on the clock.

Be looking for a trade here. The Patriots are widely known to want to move down. The Saints want to move up to take DT Sedrick Ellis. Believe it or not, the Patriots would like to trade even further down because that would mean a lower salary slot.

Don't be shocked if the Panthers make a move here to get Ellis. The Bengals, picking ninth, also want Ellis. But that's only a move-down of two spots for New England.

If the Pats stay at No. 7, Ellis, LB Kevin Rivers, DE Derrick Harvey and CB Leodis McKelvin are possible picks. I'm guessing it's Ellis no matter who does the picking.

-- Charles Chandler

Chandler off and rollin'

Not only are the Chiefs happy with landing Glenn Dorsey, so is our mock drafter, Charles Chandler. He's got the first five in a row correct.

Kansas City, and CC, gotta love it.
For the Chiefs, picking at five, probably got the best talent in the entire draft

--STAN OLSON

Al couldn't resist!

Al Davis comes through again, taking Darren McFadden with the fourth pick. Their backfield is star-studded now, provided No. 1 pick JaMarcus Russell becomes as good as expected. ... Let's see what happens at No. 5 now. Gotta believe the Chiefs take Glenn Dorsey, but they'll have trade offers.

-- Charles Chandler

Mayock: Harvey gone before Panthers pick

NFL Network draft guru Mike Mayock waited until this morning to release his mock draft. He's got DE Derrick Harvey going No. 9 to Cincinnati. That would disappoint the Panthers, who pick 13th. Mayock has Carolina taking RB Jonathan Stewart.

-- Charles Chandler

Oakland on the clock

It'll be interesting to see whether the Raiders take McFadden or Gholston. They don't need an RB, but can Al Davis resist the speed and game-breaking ability that McFadden brings?  Word around the league yesterday was that Dorsey doesn't fit their defense. Perhaps they should change their defense then!

-- Charles Charles

Panthers vs. Matt Ryan twice a year

STAN: Atlanta just took QB Matt Ryan, a move the Falcons really needed to make. This moves them past Michael Vick, and gives a new face to the franchise for fans. Plus, Ryan can really play.

    Carolina was interested, but really didn't think he would drop far enough for them, and the Panthers had many other needs. Now they'll have to play against Ryan twice a year in the division

CHARLES: Right you are, Stan!

Live blog starts at 2 p.m.

Our Panthers writers will be answering team-related questions from 2 p.m. until the draft begins at 3 p.m.  We'll answer all the questions in this blog post, so remember to put your questionjs in the comment portion of this blog and to hit your refresh button often.

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Hey Who Do You Think the Panther Will Pick? -- Danny

STAN: Danny, if DE Derrick Harvey is there, they grab him. If not, it's up in the air, but my bet would be running back Jonathan Stewart.

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How realistic is it to think the Panthers could package a couple late round picks to be able to fill OL, DT, DE, and S needs in first 2 or 3 rounds? -- Vernon

Charles: Vern, my man ... I fully expect they'll be trying to maximize those 2s and 3s. They're sitting in a good spot with both 3s in the top half of the third round. They'd do fine to stay put, but there may be people they want to move up to get.

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Who do you suspect the trade partner is on the "standing offer to trade down" that the Panthers have? -- PSL Owner

Charles: Well, let's put on our thinking cap here. ... Possibilities include KC at 17 (to get a tackle of choice), Houston at 18 (tackle, rb, cb), Dallas at 22 (who knows what jj would want?!) ... That's at first glance ... Again, if Harvey and/or Stewart are there, don't think they're going anywhere except to the podium.

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If we can get Derrick Harvey we wouldn't need Jason Taylor--Eric

DAVID: Eric, Jason Taylor's probably a bit old for what the Panthers are trying to do anyway, but, yes, drafting Harvey would mean Taylor wouldn't be necessary.

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I think that we trade a 2nd Rd pick for Jason Taylor, and draft Otah or Williams in 1st rd, RB in the 3rd Rd -- Doug

STAN: Doug, Taylor has some time left, but probably not all that much. I think they want to get younger, and Taylor's not even on the radar.

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There have been comments on the forum that talk about how Peppers is unhappy in Carolina, have either of you guys heard this or could back up this information? -- Bob

Charles: Have seen that, probably the same places you have. Haven't confirmed it. Doubt that it's fully true. But would you be happy if you'd just had a 2 1/2 sack season and everybody was guessing what in the world was wrong with you?

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Which later round running back has the most upside? Aside from McFadden, Mendenhall, and Stewart? Which would fit the Panther's needs the most? -- Mike

Charles: Hi Mike. I think it's Stewart. He has everything you're looking for in a big back and more. If he ends up with the Panthers -- and that definitely could happen -- you'll love him.

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So many holes, not enough first round picks.

-- Roger

STAN: Roger, I couldn't agree more. I think DE is first priority and then RB. Still, if they fool us and grab an OT, well, we'll be as surprised as you are.

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If Harvey, Clady, and Stewart are off the board when the Panthers pick (which is likely), do you think the Panthers would trade down or be happy with Jeff Otah? -- Bobby

Charles: To answer your question specifically, I'd say 1) Harvey 2) Stewart 3) Clady 4) trade down for Otah.

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We need to pick up Harvey if Peppers is unhappy. -- Richard

STAN: Richard, I don't think Peppers is unhappy; I expect a bounce-back season from him. That would be helped greatly by an enforcer on the other end, and I think Harvey is that guy.

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What RB should the Panthers get that will fit in their scheme? -- Danny

Charles: First round, Stewart. Second round, 1) Rice, K.Smith, or Forte.

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Will the Panthers keep the 13th or trade it? Looks like Matt Ryan will go to ATL at #3.-- Scott

Charles: Hi Chief Engineer Scotty ... It depends on who's on the board. They'll stay there to take Harvey or Stewart. If neither of them are there, it gets interesting.

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I will say I believe we have a 50% chance of doing a trade. I can debate we need to stay were we are. -- Roger

STAN: Roger, I agree with you. I like the talent available at 13, and I also like the fact that Carolina has 10 picks. I'd like to see them make the most of them, bring a bunch of young bodies and wind up getting some key new contributors at several positions.

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Hey do u think the Panthers will pursue a trade for Chad Johnson seeing how he and Steve Smith are good friends? -- Vernon

DAVID: Vernon: Two things: One, the Panthers already signed D.J. Hackett to be the No. 2 guy behind Smith. Second, they're not looking for any of the kind of drama Johnson might bring to the locker room.

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It look like Kenny Phillips may fall out of the 1rd do think carolina make a run at him if he does? -- Eric

STAN: If Kenny Phillips slips into the second round, Carolina would be hugely interested in the free safety, Eric. Possibly even to trade up to be in position to do so. If it happens, we won't be surprised.

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Guys, Can we move past the idea that OT is our biggest need? -- Pas Rush 101

DAVID: Pass Rush: I agree! The Panthers have plenty of moves they can make on the O line, especially with all the big guards they have on the roster that would help them be a more physical run-blocking outfit.

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If Ryan or Dorsey slip past the Falcons is it possible we move up to draft either of them? -- Matt

Charles: Hi Matt. Sounds strong that Falcons are taking Ryan. Dorsey will be available but I don't think they'd move up that high. If they move up for a DT, it'll probably be Sedrick Ellis.

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What teams do you see as being the most likely to make moves up the draft board? I know everyone wants to trade down, do you see anyone trading up? -- Artrip

Charles: New Orleans really wants to move up to get one of the two premier DTs, Dorsey or Ellis.

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I hate to say it but I believe we need four starters from this draft. DT, DE, OT and RB. I don't believe we ever had four starters from any draft. -- Roger

STAN: Roger, I think they could use help at all four, but I really think they absolutely need a starter only at DE. OT is less of a need if, with all the guards on hand, Wharton stays at LT. RB could use someone to help out DeAngelo Williams, and DT there is a huge need for another solid guy in the rotation.

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Have you guys heard any rumblings of the Panthers being interested in a couple of Notre Dame guys like Trevor Laws or Tom Zibitowski? I think both those guys would be ideal fits in our defense and even help special teams. -- Bobby

Charles: Yes, both of them, especially Laws. The good thing about Laws is this is a weak draft for DTs, and several of them have questions either about their character or their effort. He is a high-effort guy, so strong that I've heard him referred to as "the energizer bunny."

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There has been talk this morning of Stewart's history with turf toe. We haven't forgot fumblin' Foster and his toe problems yet, have we? -- Scott

Charles: The Panthers have the best inside information possible on Stewart's toe. One of their team doctors, Dr. Robert Anderson, operated on Stewart's turf toe. Anderson is perhaps the nation's foremost foot surgeon. From what I've heard, the Panthers think his toe will be just fine.

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I understand the logic in selecting Harvey with the 13th pick, but don't you think it's important to select someone who will give a spark of excitement to the organization? I see that more likely coming from drafting either Rashad Mendenhall or Jonathon Stewart to couple with DeAngelo Williams giving us a terrific backfield for the upcoming season. -- Evan

DAVID: Evan: Drafting a running back might accomplish a lot of what you're talking about: It would fill a need at a position where the Panthers are lacking. And, because of the nature of the position, the element of excitement might come along with that player, if he's successful as a pro.

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"We just signed 3 former starters in this league at Guard, have a returning starter at Guard and using a 1st day draft pick last year at Center. What is the problem with leaving Gross at RT and Wharton at LT? It wasn't a BAD combination by any means. I think Wharton is a decent T in this league and got paid like it. That being said, do you really think they will spend draft picks with the OL being VERY deep in talent?" WE HAD A HEALTY LINE LAST YEAR AND NOT ONE 1000 YARD RUSHER! We need an OT. -- Roger

Charles: Hi Mr. Commissioner ... Two of the starters from that line are gone. But your point is valid. I just don't agree that it needs to be a first-round pick.

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Why are people like Mel Kiper and other draft experts so high on Carolina tradingup to get matt ryan. Do they not see what Matt Moore was able to do. Earn the respect of the players and coaches, as well as fans? -- Williams

STAN: William, I'm in agreement with you 100 percent. I absolutely believe that Carolina is fine at QB, and they have far more pressing needs than adding Ryan. I think those guys are way off base, but I guess we'll see soon...And I really liked what Moore was able to do.

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Hey, I think the biggest needs are DE OT and RB. If they are able to get the guys they want in 1st 3 picks I think theyll use their other 3rd round or 4th round pick on a QB. My question for you guys is who do you think that they might grab for their QB choice? Or will that be like the last position they will draft? Any 3rd or 4th round guy that you guys have had your eyes on? -- Colton

DAVID: Colton: There are two quarterbacks in one city in southern California, San Diego State's Kevin O'Connell and San Diego's Josh Johnson, who might interest the Panthers in later rounds.

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Mike didn't ask for the best back in the draft...he wanted to know about late-round backs like Forte', Boyd, Rice, Kevin Smith etc, which I think is a lot more relevant to the Panthers with 3 picks in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. So...who should they target if they don't go RB in the 1st? -- Michael

Hi Michael ... Thanks for the clarification. I think any of the ones you mentioned would fit fine. I would guess Rice as first choice even though he's short. He's a power back, has been extremely productive and durable and scores high in the character department. ... Smith would be a blast to cover. He's not only a good player. He's a quote machine!

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Assuming Harvey is our first pick, which way do we go in the 2nd round? RB (Rice, Charles, Johnson), OT (Baker, Anthony Collins), or DT (Moore, Laws) -- Bobby

DAVID: Bobby: By that time, an RB like Rutgers' Ray Rice might be the perfect guy.

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Should the panthers not trade up and take Glenn Dorsey? -- John

Charles: The price would be too high.

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I think DT in the 2nd, Bobby. Best Available. -- Mike

Charles: If so, you'd probably have to "reach" to get a suitable DT. RB is a better value there at 43. Only problem is, not sure if one would be left with the first third-rounder (No. 67).

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Would the panthers be one of the teams to trade up to 5 with KC packaging their first rounder this year, a second-rounder this year, maybe one of our 3rd round picks and possibly a second rounder next year to get a Dorsey, Gholston, or Sedrick Ellis, or McFadden? -- Andrew

Charles: Hi Andrew. Would you pay THAT MUCH to move up to 5? That's almost the whole draft, plus a premium pick next year. Let me put this gently: NO WAY DO THEY DO THAT DEAL!

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Hey guys. Do you think that Matt Forte will be a good back in the NFL? and if so, do u think he will be a great fit for Carolina? -- Boo

DAVID: Boo: He ran for more than 2,000 yards last season at Tulane and is a big guy (6-1, 224). So, yes and yes (but not until second or third round).

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With a productive draft, and a HEALTHY Jake, do we make the playoffs? -- iamh

Charles: It's possible. Let's talk after we know how productive the draft is and who they get.

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Having 3 QBs rushed,sacked, and harassed into bad decisions and injuries means we need OL help -- Vernon

STAN: And that's what they've been gathering up with all these big guards, Vernon. They want to be more physical, and there's some thought that Gross and Wharton will be fine at tackles with help from bigger guards inside. The new guys have a lot of NFL experience. That said, expect Carolina to take an OT in a later round.

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Guys, I have heard a couple of people say in their mock drafts that around the 4th round or so they might pick up Kentucky's Woodson. Do you agree or do you like another mid-late round QB? -- Tim

DAVID: Tim: That's about the time the Panthers might consider a quarterback, but not much earlier. Woodson might be the kind of guy they would consider, too.

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If Harvery is off the board at 13 do we go o-line or running back? -- Jaon

Charles: Mr. Jonathan Stewart. ... By the way, I was at Trader Joe's this morning and saw a guy wearing an Oregon Ducks hat. I asked him what he thinks of Stewart. He said he loves Stewart. Said he's been nicked up some, but plays through the injuries. Says he's even got moves for a big guy. Also said he is a very high-character guy off the field. This guy fits the Panther mold.

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HEALTHY Jake last year = Playoffs! -- PSL Owner

STAN: PSL, I agree totally. People always underplay how much Delhomme means to the Panthers, or how much it means to have one healthy QB all year. Instead they played four. I absolutely think they would have made it.

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Panthers need to either get Harvey in RD 1 or trade back. Then in rd 2 get sam baker OT from USC to play with his former teammate...Ryan Kalil (there has to be some chemistry there). Then in rd 5 get Corey Lynch FS from ASU. That kid knows how to play some football. -- Armanti

Charles: First things first. Regarding "Armanti for Heisman," our buddy Darin Gantt is here, too, and gave that idea a big thumbs up! He's an App St grad, you know! ... Now, on to your questions ... Darin says Lynch in the fifth would be a steal! ... As for trading down if Harvey's not there, don't trade if Stewart is there. Otherwise, consider the offers.

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Hi i was just wondering if you think panthers should draft moore the dt from the maryland college i think he could improve our defense and he would be a good pick for us and i was also wondering if they should try to trade for shockey that would also improve our offense? -- Stan

STAN: Uh, hi Stan; love the name. Dre Moore of Maryland would be a reach for them in the second round but a good pick in the third. As for Shockey, don't look for that to happen. Again, this year is about getting younger, I think.

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In the Fox era theyve had some pretty good 1st round picks, but bad ones from then on out. Would you sacrifice not having a good 1st rounder for good 2nd 3rd etc rounders? -- Bobo

Charles: No, Bobo, I would not. But, the 2nd and 3rd round flops have gotta end.

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What have been the talks you guys have heard about Panthers moving up to 5th and taking Matt Ryan (if available)? I have heard Falcons were big on Dorsey. -- Will

STAN: Will, doesn't look like that will be an option, because Atlanta is strongly leaning towards picking Ryan. Don't think it will happen, but the team wouldn't do it anyway, given the needs at other spots.

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Are the Panthers comfortable with what they have at the safety position? -- Vernon

Vernon: Well, Chris Harris a fine strong safety. Free safety, however, is another issue altogether. Keep an eye on the draft today. Some possible picks are NC State's DaJuan Morgan, UTEP's Quintin Demps and Darin's boy, App State's Corey Lynch.

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STAN: Guys, thanks for the questions. We're done with the live blog, but we will be here--Charles Chandler, Stan Olson and David Scott--blogging on the Panthers' picks and on the league picks in general until today's session is over.

CHARLES: Stay tuned here at charlotte.com. We'll be blogging throughout the day after the draft begins. So get your laptops and bring them with you to your TV room. Have a great day, folks!

Draft updates

Here's an update after checking around the league less than 24 hours before the draft begins:

-- Word is that St. Louis might just take Virginia DE Chris Long instead of LSU DT Glenn Dorsey with the No. 2 pick. If that turns out to be the case, it'll dramatically affect the rest of the early first-round picks.

It puts Atlanta, picking No. 3, in the difficult position of deciding whether to select Dorsey or Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan. While it has been widely expected all week that Dorsey was the Falcons' preference, that may have changed. Owner Arthur Blank is believed to favor Ryan to give the franchise a new face and to finally turn the page on the Michael Vick era.

If the Falcons don't select Ryan, he could fall to No. 7. And if that happens, Carolina could become a trade-up factor. The odds are slim but we're told the team leaders haven't ruled it out.

-- It's widely known that Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart underwent surgery to repair his turf toe after the NFL combine. But did you know the surgeon was one of the Panthers' team doctors, nationally-renowned foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson? A source close to Stewart said today that the back should be ready before training camp opens and might begin running in about four weeks.

-- Charles Chandler

Finally coming around to Harvey

    My buddy and fellow Panthers beat writer Charles Chandler has finally come around.

         Forget about running backs, he wrote in today's Charlotte Observer. Carolina should take defensive end Derrick Harvey with its first pick in Saturday's NFL draft.

    Uh, Charles, I've been telling you that for weeks.

    Actually, I didn't change Charles' mind; he knows more about the NFL than I do, and his analysis of the situation did. Harvey is the player out there who will make the biggest difference in the Panthers this 
year. Chandler had previously felt that Carolina should take a running back, preferably Jonathan Stewart. Both of us had backed off that offensive tackle thing awhile back, when it became apparent that the team was loading up on experienced, NFL-ready guards. Don't be surprised now if Travelle Wharton, the team's left tackle last year, stays there instead of moving to left guard. There's too much talent 
inside on the line already.

    Don't get me wrong; Charles and I both still feel that Stewart or even fellow RB Rashard Mendenhall wouldn't be a bad pick.

    But the bottom line was that Carolina's Front Four was dismal last year, with no Panther reaching even four sacks. Harvey can step in immediately and start changing that.

         I expect DE Julius Peppers to be back to his old double-figure sack self this year. Because he'll have Mr. Harvey to help him.

--Stan Olson

How about Shaun Alexander?

In case you’re wondering, the Panthers won’t try to sign Shaun Alexander. Not now and almost certainly not after the draft -- even if they don’t select a back (which is about as likely as the team colors changing to pink and green).

Alexander once was a premier back. Just two years ago, he was the NFL MVP. In his prime, he was the ideal kind of runner for the Panthers.

But Alexander is no longer an elite player. He’s in the twilight of his career, partly due to injuries. Seattle coach Mike Holmgren isn’t in the business of releasing anyone he believes can help him win a championship.

Alexander will be 31 when the season starts and that’s old for a running back. He averaged 3.6 and 3.5 yards per carry the past two years, respectively, after ranging from 4.4 to 5.1 the previous three seasons.

Perhaps Alexander will find a new team for a final year or two of his career, much like Emmitt Smith in Arizona after his Dallas days.

MERLING WORKOUT UPDATE

We told you yesterday that the Panthers were represented at Phillip Merling’s workout at Clemson, but not by GM Marty Hurney or coach John Fox.

A source who was there told us Carolina sent defensive line coach Sal Sunseri and a scout.

The Panthers likely aren’t interested in taking Merling, a DE, in the draft. They might have been if Merling hadn’t required sports hernia surgery, which prevented him from providing fresh measurables, such as a 40-yard dash, vertical jump, shuttle, bench press, etc. He only began working out in the past week and on Thursday did just the defensive line drills that are used at the combine.

CHARLES CHANDLER

Live chat before the draft, 2 to 3 p.m.

Got questions or comments about the Panthers’ upcoming draft? Join our live chat 2-3 p.m. Saturday, when reporters Charles Chandler and Stan Olson will discuss the draft here on the Inside the Panthers blog.

Fans' mock draft voting results ...

Thanks to all of you who voted in our fans’ mock draft.

We made the first 12 picks and let our readers make the call for the Panthers at No. 13. Among the players off the board were OT Ryan Clady and G/T Branden Albert.

We’ve tallied the results. If we could tell that someone voted twice for the same person, we only counted one. There also was one person who split his vote two ways and another who turned in a three-way tie. We didn’t count those because the Panthers won’t have that option on Saturday. Some comments were posted with no vote cast.

And now, drumroll please ...

Florida defensive end Derrick Harvey won the poll, getting 60 of 151 votes cast.

Here are the results:

DE Derrick Harvey ...................60

OT Jeff Otah ............................30

RB Rashard Mendenhall ........... 20

RB Jonathan Stewart ................12

Trade down for picks ................11

OT Chris Williams.......................5

Trade up for DT Sedrick Ellis ......2

Trade for Dolphins’ DE J.Taylor...2

Trade up for OT Ryan Clady........2

Trade up for QB Matt Ryan .........1

Trade up for DT Glenn Dorsey.....1

OT Gosder Cherilus....................1

WR Dexter Jackson....................1

LB Dan Connor..........................1

A left tackle ...............................1

Best available player...................1

Reading tea leaves, 48 hours out

   With about 48 hours to go before the NFL draft begins, there are significant rumblings involving some of the players linked to the Panthers. Here's what we're hearing:

   

Climbing:

• Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart (left). Medical concerns about his toe surgery have subsided. He seems to be climbing up boards. Don't be surprised to see him in the top 10 of some final national mock drafts.                                                                                                                                                                
  

• Boston College OT Gosder Cherilus (right). He's viewed as a really solid pick to play right tackle and perhaps less of a risk than Pitt OT Jeff Otah, though Otah has more upside.

• Florida DE Derrick Harvey (left). There was a time when it seemed like there was a good chance he'd be available when the Panthers pick at No. 13. Now it's not so certain at all. He had a very good pro day workout and is a high-effort player at a high-impact position. Those are hard to find, especially in a player who was voted team captain and has an 82-inch wingspan. (Don't you know Julius Peppers would love to be flanked by this guy?!)

   Dropping, at least a little:

• Vanderbilt OT Chris Williams (right). The Broncos, who have the 12th pick, may be his safety net. But if he gets past them, he could fall to No. 17 or 18. He isn't as physical as some teams, such as Carolina, prefer. But he's an ideal fit for Denver or Houston, who use zone-blocking schemes extensively.

• Branden Albert, G/T, Virginia. It almost isn't fair to list him here, but we're doing it because so many recent mocks had him going No. 5 to Kansas City. It now looks like the Chiefs may be able to get Albert's college teammate, DE Chris Long. If so, Albert could go to the Ravens at No. 8 or even be available when the Panthers pick at No. 13.

• Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois. It's not that Mendenhall is dropping overall, but it sounds like the Panthers prefer Stewart.

   On the bubble:

• Clemson DE Phillip Merling (left). This is a huge day for him. His stock fell after he was unable to work out at the combine or at Clemson's Pro Day due to undergoing sports hernia surgery. However, he held a special individual workout on campus earlier today and hoped to solidify his pre-draft standing. He isn't fully recovered yet and wasn't able to run a 40-yard dash, but did some individual defensive line drills. According to a source close to the situation, the Panthers were represented but GM Marty Hurney and coach John Fox didn't attend. The Washington Redskins, who have the No. 21 selection, had a huge contingent on hand to watch Merling, including owner Dan Snyder, vice president of football operations Vinny Cerrato and coach Jim Zorn. The Redskins need a defensive end.

   What does it all mean?

   Looks like the Panthers will pick either an OT, Harvey or Stewart.

   -- Charles Chandler

Fans' mock draft: Who would you pick?

OK, it’s your turn to make the Panthers’ pick in a fans’ mock draft.

Here are the first 12 selections and a list of remaining players.

You get to be Carolina’s GM.

1. Miami -- Jake Long, OT, Michigan

2. St. Louis -- Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

3. Atlanta -- Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

4. Oakland -- Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State

5. Kansas City -- Chris Long, DE, Virginia

6. N.Y. Jets -- Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

7. New England -- Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

8. Baltimore -- Branden Albert, G/T, Virginia

9. Cincinnati -- Sedrick Ellis, DT, So. Cal.

10. New Orleans -- Keith Rivers, LB, So. Cal.

11. Buffalo -- Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State

12. Denver -- Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

13. Carolina ________________?

Key players remaining on the board (listed alphabetically):

Select one as the Panthers’ pick at No. 13 (only one vote per person, please):

Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt.

(Deadline for sending in your selection is 5 p.m. Thursday).

Rams must wait to begin talks

The NFL won't allow the St. Louis Rams to begin negotiating with players they're considering taking with the No. 2 pick in Saturday's NFL draft.

The issue arose after Miami struck a deal yesterday with Michigan tackle Jake Long to be the No. 1 selection.

According to a story recently posted on the St. Louis Post-Dispatch website, the NFL has a policy that only the team picking first can negotiate with a potential pick before the draft begins. The rule could be reconsidered in the future to address situations just as this, however.

It is widely believed that the Rams will choose from three options: LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, Virginia defensive end Chris Long or trading down. A deal-down likely would be with a team targetting Dorsey, such as New Orleans, which currently has the 10th pick.

--Charles Chandler

Draft day from Chiefs perspective

   Taking at look at the draft from another team's perspective:

   Last night's Kansas City-Minnesota trade was huge and could end up making the Chiefs a big winner Saturday in the draft.

   Kansas City already had the No. 5 overall pick and acquired the No. 17 plus two third-rounders from the Vikings in exchange for franchise free agent defensive end Jared Allen.

   The trade combined with possible shifts in the first four picks in the draft could leave Kansas City with excellent players to fill need positions.

   There now appears to be a possibility that the Chiefs could get Virginia defensive end Chris Long with the fifth pick, which would be a huge value there and would provide an instant replacement for Allen.

   It has looked in recent weeks like Kansas City was going to have to reach for an offensive lineman at No. 5. Based on recent developments, however, here's a very possible way KC could get Long:

   

1. Miami -- Has already signed Michigan OT Jake Long

 

2. St. Louis -- The Rams are deciding between Chris Long, Glenn Dorsey and trading down. It's a close call, but let's pencil in Dorsey here.

   

3. Atlanta -- The Falcons want Dorsey, but if he's gone likely would go for Boston College QB Matt Ryan, which should please owner Arthur Blank and truly turn the page from the Michael Vick era into a fresh new future.

   

4. Oakland -- It seems almost storybook that the Raiders would pick the son of former great Howie Long. But word is that may not happen. Raiders could go with RB Darren McFadden or DE Vernon Gholston. Both have the speed, speed, speed that owner Al Davis likes. Give 'em Gholston.

   

5. Kansas City -- In this scenario, Chris Long falls right in their laps and they don't have to reach for an OL like Virginia's Brendan Albert or Boise State's Ryan Clady.

   Now, here's where it continues to look good for the Chiefs. With the 17th pick, there's a good chance they could get the left tackle they need in Vandy's Chris Williams. The Texans, picking one spot behind at 18, would be very disappointment because they like Williams, too.

   Then, with an early second-round pick and three -- count 'em, three! -- third-rounders, the Chiefs would be in position to move up into the late first round to pick a quarterback to fill that need.

   For Chiefs fans, Saturday and Sunday should be extremely fun. They've now got six of the first 82 picks and the opportunity to transform their franchise.

   -- Charles Chandler

Minter comments on Rucker retirement

Mike Rucker and Mike Minter are best friends. They may as well be brothers.

So it hurt Minter, the former Panthers' safety, to miss Rucker's retirement press conference Tuesday afternoon at Bank of America Stadium.

Minter wanted to be there so much, but he had a business appointment in Wilmington that he couldn't cancel.

Speaking by phone, Minter said Rucker's retirement brought back memories of his own emotional  farewell at training camp in Spartanburg last year.

"I know how he feels," Minter said of Rucker. "I know what he's going through. But he can walk out with his head held high knowing he left the organization better than when he found it.

"When you look at a football player, when you look at a professional, you look at a guy like Mike Rucker, a guy who maximized his talent and a guy who really made a mark on the history of Carolina Panthers' football."

-- Charles Chandler

Rucker's farewell: As classy as it gets

Slideshow of Rucker's conference
Video from conference
Blog: Tom Talks

It was an honor to be at Mike Rucker's farewell press conference today. He spoke from his heart and, in doing so, revealed his heart. There was a strength to his voice as he displayed a passion for God, his wife and family, Jerry Richardson and the Panthers organization, his coaches and trainers, the game he is leaving behind, and -- as he said, "last but not least" -- his teammates.

"There's nothing like going to battle with your comrades," Rucker told at least 25 current and former players gathered in the team meeting room, including quarterback Jake Delhomme. "That's one of the biggest things I'll miss. I love you dudes. I'd do it all over again. I want you to know I gave it all I had. I laid it on the line for you."

Earlier, in speaking from the podium to coach John Fox, Rucker said, "The tank is empty ... it's empty."

Rucker said it was difficult to bid farewell to football after nine NFL seasons, but he said he's also joyful. In remembering a telephone conversation earlier today with his brother Martin, a Missouri tight end expected to be a mid-round pick in this weekend's draft, he talked of how exciting it is when you're reading a good book to turn the page to the next chapter.

That's what today was about -- turning the page in Rucker's life from football to life after football. Owner Jerry Richardson advised him to retire now, rather than possibly spending a year or two with another team in another city. It's rare these days for a player to spend his entire career in one place, and Rucker agreed with Richardson that was the way he wanted to go out. He plans to remain in the Charlotte area and continue pursuing the business and community activities he's already begun.

Rucker eloquently thanked almost everyone there. First he thanked God, then his wife, then Jerry Richardson, then GM Marty Hurney, then coach John Fox ... on and on down to the equipment guys and even the media. To each one he named, he made personal remarks.

It was clear he meant every word.

"You mean a lot," he kept saying as he directly addressed people during his speech. "You mean a lot."

It's a virtual certainty that the people there would say the same thing to Rucker. He left the organization better than it was when he arrived nine years ago.

When his speech was over, everyone -- reporters included -- stood and applauded.

A few moments later, defensive coordinator sat Mike Trgovac sat in the back of the room and said Rucker and his good buddy Mike Minter, the former Panthers' safety who retired last year, are precisely the type of players and people the Panthers hope they can get in the NFL draft this weekend.

The Panthers will be mightily blessed if that happens.

-- Charles Chandler

Source: Rucker retiring today

 

    Former Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker, an unrestricted free agent who has not signed with the team, will announce his retirement at a 1 p.m. news conference at Bank of America Stadium, according to a source close to the situation.

Rucker became an unrestricted free agent on Feb. 29 and initially said he planned to play again next season. He had hoped the team would re-sign him. He remains unsigned, however, and Carolina apparently made the difficult decision to move forward without him.

Rucker is one of the most beloved players in team history. He ranks second in career sacks with 55.5, one-half behind Julius Peppers. He is second in tackles with 553, behind Mike Minter's 953. Rucker, 33, played nine NFL seasons, all with Carolina. He was a second-round pick in the 1999 NFL draft.

-- Charles Chandler

Smith: Honeymoon over for Jarrett

It's fairly apparent, if Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith's comments are any indication, that it's time for second-year wideout Dwayne Jarrett to step up and be accountable.

Smith didn't single Jarrett out by name, but when asked by an Associated Press reporter at a charity golf tournament in Raleigh today if Jarrett was due for a coming-out party, he did not mince words.

"You know, the party session is actually over," Smith said. "This is the NFL. You make plays. You're here to play football. You do the party scene at your own discretion, but on Sundays, we're here to play football. If you can't play football, you won't be playing with the Carolina Panthers or any NFL team.

"So, this isn't a poke at anybody. That's just the way it is. You know, you produce, you're in. You don't produce, you're out."

Jarrett played sparingly while struggling to adjust to the NFL as a rookie, catching just six passes. During the offseason, he was charged with DWI, pleaded not guilty and now faces a June 23 court date.

Carolina re-signed former Panther Muhsin Muhammad, and many think part of his new job is to mentor Jarrett, to teach him how to be the big receiver the Panthers hoped would stop opponents from double-teaming Smith.

If Jarrett isn't careful, though, he may find his time already past.

The Panthers signed free agent D.J. Hackett in the offseason, and he's expected to compete with Muhammad for the No.2 job opposite Smith. The guess now is that Hackett will win the spot, with Moose usually on the field in three-receiver sets. Jarrett's no better than fourth on the depth chart at the position.

But maybe Muhammad will surprise us.

"Physically, he looks better coming back the second time than he did leaving, so that just shows how tremendous and how competitive he is, how willing he's able to do (anything) and stay in the game," Smith said. -- Stan Olson

Panthers not revealing much on draft plans

The Carolina Panthers held their annual pre-draft press conference this afternoon, but they didn't give away any secrets.

Asked about the key needs the team has in the draft, which begins Saturday, general manager Marty Hurney said, "I think that it's probably no secret that there are several positions on offense. I think people have talked about offensive line, tight end, wide receiver, running back. If the right quarterback's there you always have to look at him.

"Then on defense, defensive tackle, defensive end, I think safety. You have a wide variety of spots you can look at as far as positions go, but the main is to get good football players."

As what the deepest positions in the draft are, Hurney said, "I think most people would say that wide receiver and cornerback are the two deepest spots in the draft. But I think every team, and we, would like to think that there's good players at every position."

If that didn't tell you much, well, that's exactly the way the Panthers want it. -- STAN OLSON

Clady In Place

We've corrected the new mock draft online and now have Ryan Clady going to the Broncos at No. 12.

Oops!

Just a note to apologize for a mistake in the Mock Draft in this morning's paper. I unintentionally left the 10th-ranked player in our Top 100, Boise State tackle Ryan Clady, out of the first round. Aargh!  Based on the early picks in the mock, I would have had him going to Denver at No. 12 and Vanderbilt's Chris Williams falling somewhere between the 15th and 20th picks. Not exactly sure how this happened. Just not careful enough in review, I guess. As most of you know, Clady is an excellent player and could well be a Panther if he gets past Denver at No. 12. Happy Sunday everyone.

-- Charles Chandler

LB looks like draft's weak spot

   
Normally, linebackers are one of the dominant groups in the Top 100  of any draft. This year, not so much.

The Charlotte Observer's list,  which will be online starting tomorrow, has only one linebacker,  Keith Rivers of Southern Cal, with any chance of going among the top ten picks. He's No.9 on our list, compiled by Charles Chandler, David Scott and myself through interviews with scouts, team officials and  draft gurus. Then you don't find another LB after that until the 17th slot, where Tennessee's Jerod Mayo resides.

    From there, we plunge to No.35 and Oklahoma's Curtis Lofton. By the way, Lofton is one of the hottest climbers on our board, organized into its final order by Chandler. The entire top 100 has 12 linebackers, counting players who can play inside or outside. That's not all that bad, but just five of those are in the Top 50, and only two among the first 34.

    That's not really a problem for the Panthers, who are fairly well set at LB compa