1. Speed is the Panthers’ biggest need. Coach Ron Rivera and general manager Dave Gettleman both went out of their way to stress this point. It may have already been obvious, but they made it clear adding speed is at the top of their offseason to-do list.2. The Panthers’ cap situation is better than it was heading into last offseason. That doesn’t mean they’re going to go after one big-money player, but they have more cash to spend on multiple areas of need.
Gettleman: “Last year we were shopping in the dollar store. I think this year we may be able to move up in class a little bit.”
3. Staff changes are not imminent. Rivera didn’t mention anyone by name, but he praised the offense’s use of the no-huddle toward the end of the season. He and Gettleman also mentioned the toll injuries took on special teams. If the choice is truly up to Rivera, don’t expect staff changes.4. Gettleman repeated he views Cam Newton as a franchise quarterback. Gettleman wouldn’t touch questions about a potential new contract for Newton, but the Panthers aren’t in a do-or-die spot this offseason. They want to see him play more consistently, and they may want to see that happen next season before they commit many years and millions.5. The Panthers know what we all know: They have to get better on the offensive line, at receiver and in the secondary. While Gettleman wouldn’t expand much on specific players, his comments on left tackle Byron Bell weren’t all that glowing.
Gettleman: “Byron showed flashes. It’s about consistency. I’d give him a little bit of the benefit of the doubt. It was his first year playing there. But I think we’ve shown that if a player shows up that we think is going to make us better, we’re going to go get him.”
BlackBlueReview So we are going from shopping at dollar tree to Walmart…not sure that’s better
BlackBlueReview So we are going from shopping at dollar tree to Walmart…not sure that’s better
BlackBlueReview thanks! Great job on all the coverage this year. First class!
BlackBlueReview thanks! Great job on all the coverage this year. First class!
BlackBlueReview there won’t be any staff changes with Rivera so our special teams will continue to suck and our offense will suffer smh
BlackBlueReview there won’t be any staff changes with Rivera so our special teams will continue to suck and our offense will suffer smh