Fantasy Football thoughts ...

It's been a quiet few days in Pantherland, so let's take a break from "real" football to ponder a few questions for Fantasy Football GMs out there who are preparing for their league drafts. We'll do this in Q&A format.

Q: Which running back should be drafted first, DeAngelo Williams or Jonathan Stewart?

A: This one is sure to stir heated debate. Based only on what we've seen so far in the preseason, it would have to be Williams. He's looked good and we've barely seen Stewart because the team is being extra-cautious with his still-sore right big toe. But don't lock in on DeAngelo just yet.

Many believe Stewart is like a rocket ship waiting to take off, and that once he lifts off and gets rolling, there may be no turning back for the Panthers.

This is a close call, very close. And since I have some neighborhood buddies who'll compete with me in a draft on Labor Day, I'm sitting on my final answer. (By the way, our commissioner is named Matt Ryan, who actually thinks he's the Falcons' new QB).

Q: What about Jake?

A: Go for it. Draft him wherever you want. The arm looks fine.

Q: What about Steve Smith since he'll miss the first two games?

A: It's got to drop him. Looks like he'll have a big year, but those first two games are huge. Make sure you've got another front-line receiver before you take him.

Q: Can the defense be trusted?

A: Not so long ago, the Panthers had one of the best FFL defenses in the league. Last year, they weren't worth having on your roster. Look for them to rebound, but don't expect wonders. Figure they'll rank 10th to 14th among defenses.

Q: Anybody else worth picking?

John Kasay is almost always a solid choice as a kicker. Muhsin Muhammad should make a nice No. 3 receiver on a fantasy roster. Stay away from the tight ends (more blocking than pass-catching).

P.S. -- Now, a final word to Matt, our commissioner: Though we normally start anew each season with a full draft, I propose that all the teams in our league get to keep two players, and two players only, from last season. I'll go ahead and set mine aside: LaDainian Tomlinson and Adrian Peterson. (No, dear readers, somehow I didn't win the league. T-Rock did.) Thanks in advance, Matt, for your support.

-- Charles Chandler