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| 1 | SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 10 | 1:00p (ET) | ATL | | 2 | SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 17 | 1:00p (ET) | @MIN | | 3 | SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 24 | 1:00p (ET) | @TAM | | 4 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 1 | 1:00p (ET) | NOR | | 5 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 8 | 1:00p (ET) | CLE | | 6 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 15 | 1:00p (ET) | @BAL | | 7 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 22 | 1:00p (ET) | @CIN | | 8 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 29 | 8:15p (ET) | DAL | | 9 | BYE WEEK | | 10 | MONDAY
NOVEMBER 13 | 8:30p (ET) | TAM | | 11 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 19 | 1:00p (ET) | STL | | 12 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 26 | 1:00p (ET) | @WAS | | 13 | MONDAY
DECEMBER 4 | 8:30p (ET) | @PHI | | 14 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 10 | 1:00p (ET) | NYG | | 15 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 17 | 1:00p (ET) | PIT | | 16 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 24 | 1:00p (ET) | @ATL | | 17 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 31 | 1:00p (ET) | @NOR | |
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A few players have major injury concerns. Foster has yet to play a full season in his career, and is expected to be the starter. The same is true with Morgan, who is a defensive force when healthy. Shelton missed all of his rookie season due to injury, and found himself in Fox's doghouse. Jenkins has played in only 5 games in the last 2 seasons. His presence in the middle has a huge effect on the entire defense. DE Mike Rucker has dealt with knee issues the past two years, and a clean bill of health could help him return to his 2003 levels. Diggs hurt his knee in the 3rd preseason game, but isn’t expected to miss much time.
Fantasy Impact: If Foster goes down, the door opens for talented rookie Williams, and he will get the ball a lot. If the defensive players can stay healthy, this unit will leap to the top of the fantasy world. |
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Strategy: The Panthers have a great defense, so it's no surprise that they run more than they pass (10 more runs in 2005). They will pound away at a defense and control the clock. They are not high-powered in terms of plays (964) and yards (22nd in league), but they score at a surprisingly high rate (8th in league). When they do pass, they frequently target Smith on all types of passes, but more often ones that allow him to run free. The addition of Johnson will give them a great safety-valve possession WR and a run-blocker, improving the team in both areas.
Fantasy Impact: Whoever starts at RB will put up numbers for you fantasy team. Delhomme and the passing game should continue to improve and become more diverse. |
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Strength: The QB position has a good mix of veteran experience and youthful talent. They know how to play in this offense, which relies on the run. The RB depth is excellent, with 2 players that have NFL starting experience, a 2005 2nd-rounder, and a 2006 1st-rounder. They also are well-stocked at WR, with a good mix of speed, possession, size, youth, and experience.
Fantasy Impact: With the talent at all the main offensive positions, the Panthers offense has many fantasy players. |
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Weakness: The TE position has been underused since the departure of Wesley Walls, and that is in large part due to the lack of talent at the position. None of the TEs can distinguish themselves. The offensive line is improving, but there are still some spots that could do better.
Fantasy Impact: None of the TEs are worth a fantasy spot. The line has some inexperience, but it allowed only 28 sacks last year, so it is unlikely to be a hindrance. |
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Strategy: One of the top defensive units, the Panthers run a traditional 4-3. They use their strong defensive line to generate pressure on the passer (33 sacks). They use their athletic linebackers to patrol all over the field. They usually play their CBs man-to-man with deep safety help. They love to go for the big turnover, and more often than not they get it. Coach John Fox is considered one of the great defensive minds, and you can bet he'll come up with lots of schemes to take advantage of his defense.
Fantasy Impact: This defense was one of the best units in fantasy football last year. With the personnel moves they made, there is no reason to expect a change this season. |
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Strength: The Panthers are loaded on defense. The d-line has major talent and depth at DE and DT, especially with DE Julius Peppers and DT Kris Jenkins. CBs Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble are among the best starting duos in the league, and they have good depth behind them.
Fantasy Impact: This defense is capable of piling up sacks and turnovers with ease, while limiting the offense's effectiveness. |
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Weakness: The OLB positions are more or less up for grabs, with converted safety and 2005 1st-rounder Thomas Davis on the left and Na’il Diggs penciled in on the right. Diggs is injured however, and Keith Adams will replace him until he is healthy. The safety position is also up in the air, with Colin Branch and Shaun Williams battling for a spot alongside Mike Minter. Both have had durability issues in the past, and the winner may not play the entire season.
Fantasy Impact: The defensive line is good enough to cover for the linebackers. However, solidifying the position will make the defense that much better. |
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Jonathan Stewart Impresses - 07/28/2008
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams Rookie RB Jonathan Stewart, as well as RB DeAngelo Williams, are impressing defenders in Panthers camp this week. Said one DB of Stewart, "I went over to the sidelines and told the guys, ‘We've got us something here.' He's going to be able to get a lot of those tough yards for us when we need them." Interestingly, Stewart also stayed in a Motel 6 recently after being told his contract wouldn't be finished by the time he arrived at the facility, as earlier indicated. Fantasy Impact: Williams hasn't done much to grab the job thus far in his career, and Stewart shows all indications of being a stud. He should make a good #2 RB by mid-season. | | | Panthers QB Delhomme upgraded to probable - 12/28/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Jake Delhomme Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme
practiced again Thursday and was upgraded to probable for the
Panthers' final regular season game at New Orleans.
Delhomme. who has been sidelined since suffering ligament damage
in his right thumb against Philadelphia on Dec. 4. will likely
start Sunday against the Saints in a game the Panthers must win to
keep their playoff hopes alive.
They also could be eliminated by the time they play if the New
York Giants beat Washington Saturday night.
Coach John Fox said Delhomme suffered no setbacks after his
first practice in more than three weeks on Wednesday. He again
worked with the first team on Thursday, while wearing a protective
glove on his throwing hand.
"He slung it around pretty good today," Fox said.
Chris Weinke has struggled filling in for Delhomme in the past
three games, although Carolina (7-8) beat Atlanta 10-3 last Sunday
to stay alive in the playoff race.
If the Giants lose to Washington on Saturday night, Carolina
would have to beat the Saints on Sunday afternoon and Green Bay
would have to lose to Chicago Sunday night.
Delhomme, who led the Panthers to the NFC championship game last
season, has had an up-and-down season. He has 15 touchdown passes,
11 interceptions and passer rating of only 79.4. In three losses
he's thrown fourth-quarter interceptions to end Carolina's chances,
including the last pass he threw against the Eagles.
| | | Delhomme misses second straight game with thumb injury - 12/17/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Jake Delhomme Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake
Delhomme was inactive for Sunday's game against Pittsburgh, giving
Chris Weinke his second straight start.
Delhomme hasn't been able to play or practice since suffering
ligament damage in his right thumb in Carolina's loss to
Philadelphia on Dec. 4. He tried to throw on the side before
Friday's practice, but had trouble gripping the ball.
Delhomme had his streak of 66 straight starts snapped last
Sunday in a loss to the New York Giants. Weinke threw for a
team-record 423 yards, but also had three interceptions.
Tight end Kris Mangum (hip) and running back Nick Goings
(shoulder) were also inactive.
Cornerbacks Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas, who both missed last
Sunday's game with hamstring injuries, were on the active roster
Sunday. | | | Steelers too much for Panthers, 37-3 - 12/17/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, Chris Weinke, Willie Parker, Steve Smith First Pittsburgh's fans took over Carolina's stadium. Then the Steelers manhandled the Panthers to virtually end their playoff hopes.
Willie Parker rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown and Ben Roethlisberger threw for a score and ran for another to lead Pittsburgh past Carolina 37-3 on Sunday, delighting the thousands of loyal Steelers fans who filled Bank of America Stadium.
Parker, a Clinton, N.C., native and a little-used running back in college at North Carolina, ran all over his local team, including a 41-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter to put it away.
The Steelers (7-7) also blocked a punt and returned another for a touchdown as they won their third straight game and kept their faint playoff hopes alive. The Steelers, who started 2-6, have allowed 13 points in the past three games.
Chris Weinke, starting for the second straight week in place of the injured Jake Delhomme, threw for 170 yards and an interception and was sacked five times for the Panthers (6-8), who lost their fourth straight game and were all but eliminated from the playoff race.
Injuries continued to plague Carolina, as defensive end Mike Rucker left in the second quarter with a knee injury and receiver Drew Carter was knocked out in the third with a bad ankle.
The offensive line, without injured guard Mike Wahle (shoulder), gave Weinke little time to throw as he fell to 1-16 as a starter.
The Panthers were also limited to eight yards rushing in the first half and 43 for the game.
Pittsburgh practically had the home field advantage, with nearly half the crowd rooting for the Steelers and thousands waving yellow Terrible Towels.
The ratio grew when many Carolina fans, disgusted with the Panthers' miserable season, left at halftime with Pittsburgh leading 17-3.
The lead grew to 27-3 on Parker's run and 34-3 on Santonio Holmes' 65-yard punt return early in the fourth quarter. In a telling sequence to sum up the Panthers' season, Holmes' touchdown came after Carolina recovered a muffed punt deep in Pittsburgh territory, only to have the play wiped out by a penalty.
In the fourth quarter, rookie Anthony Smith intercepted Weinke and high-stepped out of bounds while holding the ball by his ear. The hot dog move led to a shoving match between several players and a lecture to Smith from Steelers coach Bill Cowher.
Roethlisberger, who was 11-of-18 for 140 yards and went over 3,000 yards passing for the first time, was replaced by Charlie Batch after the interception.
| | | Giants back in playoff hunt with 27-13 win - 12/10/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Eli Manning, Tiki Barber, Plaxico Burress, Chris Weinke, DeAngelo Williams Eli Manning and Tiki Barber put the New York Giants back in playoff shape. Chris Weinke couldn't revive Carolina's sinking season.
Manning threw three touchdown passes and Barber ran for 112 yards as the Giants snapped a four-game losing streak with a 27-13 win over the banged-up Panthers.
The Giants (7-6) remained tied with Philadelphia and Atlanta for the NFC wild-card lead. The Panthers (6-7) lost their third straight and will lose tiebreakers to the Eagles and Giants.
Weinke, making his first start in more than four years in place of the injured Jake Delhomme, threw for a team-record 423 yards, but had three second-half interceptions. He also was undone by drops and a nonexistent running game.
While most of the attention was on Delhomme's sprained right thumb that forced him to miss his first game in four seasons, the Panthers' injury-plagued defense proved to be no match for the Giants.
The win also took some pressure off embattled coach Tom Coughlin, who had come under fire after a series of late-game collapses and player sniping.
"This not just a relief for him, it's a relief for all of us," Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce said. "If anything bad happens to the head man, it runs down to us. I think the whole organization feels a lot better."
Barber went over 10,000 career yards rushing in the second quarter on the way to his fifth 100-yard game of the season.
Manning had his second solid outing in a row, throwing a 2-yard touchdown pass to David Tyree midway through the third quarter to make it 27-10.
"Eli did a great job, directing us and leading us out there," Barber said. "We've put a lot into it. Obviously, things swirling around would suggest otherwise. We've been energetic. We've been having a good time despite what the perception is."
| | | Delhomme misses practice again with thumb injury - 12/08/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Jake Delhomme Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme missed
practice again Thursday with ligament damage in the thumb on his
throwing hand, increasing the chance backup Chris Weinke will start
on Sunday against the New York Giants.
"It's just real sore," Delhomme said. "There's a lot of
swelling and we're trying to get the swelling out. I think the big
issue is strength and how much strength I have in it."
Delhomme said although he's having trouble gripping the ball, he
may try to practice on Friday.
"We're going to try," Delhomme said. "I'm treating the heck
out of it and I'm very optimistic. We'll see."
Coach John Fox said the ligament is stretched and not torn off
the bone, which is why he doesn't need surgery. Fox didn't rule out
that Delhomme, who is still listed as questionable, could still
play on Sunday.
"We've had guys, experienced guys, that have been limited in
practice and still played," Fox said. "He'd be that kind of guy,
if it came to that."
Delhomme was injured when his right hand hit Eagles defensive
tackle Darwin Walker's helmet on his 9-yard touchdown pass to Steve
Smith in the first quarter of Monday's loss to Philadelphia.
Delhomme continued to play and threw two fourth-quarter
interceptions, the last coming in the end zone with 25 seconds
left.
Delhomme, who also missed practice on Wednesday, hasn't missed a
game since he took over for Rodney Peete at halftime of the 2003
season opener.
The 34-year-old Weinke hasn't been a full-time starter since the
2001 season and has thrown only 13 passes in four seasons. He could
be forced into duty in a critical game for the Panthers, who at 6-6
are tied with the Giants and two other teams in the NFC wild-card
race.
| | | Patient Weinke could get his shot with Panthers - 12/08/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Jake Delhomme, Chris Weinke Chris Weinke had a chance to leave, get
out of Jake Delhomme's shadow and perhaps battle for a starting
quarterback job.
But he didn't even wait for the start of free agency in the
offseason to re-sign with the Carolina Panthers.
"There are a lot of different things that go into it," Weinke
said. "I'm married, I have a baby and my wife loves Charlotte. We
love the area. We love the organization. The grass isn't always
greener on the other side.
I felt like, knowing this offense and knowing what kind of
football team we had here, I wanted to be a part of it. That's why
I re-signed here before going and listening to any other offers,"
he said.
The 34-year-old Weinke knew he may never play, because Delhomme
hasn't missed a game since he took over as a starter early in the
2003 season. Weinke has played in three games and thrown 13 passes
in four seasons.
But the former Heisman Trophy winner may finally get his chance
on Sunday against the New York Giants. The seemingly indestructible
Delhomme is nursing a sprained right thumb.
"There were a couple of sprinkles here and there at the end of
games but other than that in terms of starting a game and being the
guy, it's been a while," Weinke said.
And it could come at a key time. At 6-6, the Panthers are tied
with three other teams for a wild-card spot -- the visiting Giants
are one of them.
Delhomme missed practice for a second straight day on Thursday
and remains questionable, meaning coach John Fox may be forced to
go with Weinke.
| | | Eagles take to the air, top Panthers 27-24 - 12/05/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Jeff Garcia, Greg Lewis, Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, DeAngelo Williams Through tough times in Cleveland and Detroit, Jeff Garcia wondered if he'd ever be a significant contributor in the NFL again.
A three-time Pro Bowl quarterback when he was guiding San Francisco to playoff berths, Garcia found out on Monday Night Football just how important he is to the Philadelphia Eagles -- as important as Donovan McNabb.
Garcia played like vintage McNabb in leading the Eagles past the Carolina Panthers 27-24. And if the 36-year-old veteran guides them into the playoffs -- at 6-6 they are tied for the NFC wild-card spots -- Garcia just might make Philadelphia forget about ol' Donovan, at least for a bit.
"It's been a while since I felt this well about a game, the way we played," Garcia said after throwing for 312 yards and three touchdowns. "We never gave up, scratched and clawed for every inch out there."
Brian Dawkins' 38-yard interception return set up David Akers' decisive 25-yard field goal with 3:13 to go. After Garcia struggled early, he was nearly unstoppable, using his arm and his legs to offset Carolina's dangerous pass rush.
"We have not lost focus of what our goal is -- to be a playoff team," he said. "Nobody has been discouraged, nobody has hung their head, it's a really positive atmosphere in the locker room considering what we've gone through over the last two months. This is a great way to come together; I think we can put some things together."
Garcia, who replaced the injured McNabb (torn right knee ligament) two weeks ago and lost twice, had TD passes of 8 yards to Brian Westbrook, 30 to Donte' Stallworth and 40 to Reggie Brown. When Lito Sheppard picked off a fade pass to Keyshawn Johnson with 25 seconds left, the Eagles were back in the playoff chase, tied with Carolina, Atlanta and the New York Giants.
One of the great benefits of life in the NFC is that a .500 record makes you a contender.
"It's a crazy year," Eagles coach Andy Reid said. "Anything's possible."
Garcia has thrown for six TDs and no interceptions since taking over for McNabb.
Jake Delhomme almost matched Garcia until the two late picks. He threw for 269 yards and TDs of 9 yards to Steve Smith, 1 to Johnson and 35 to DeAngelo Williams.
But the late interceptions ruined his night and continued the inconsistency that has marked the Panthers' season. They lost two, won four straight, lost two more, won two and now have dropped two in a row again.
"We're 6-6. We're average right now," Delhomme said.
"It will test our character," Panthers coach John Fox said. "We have four games left and we're fortunate we have four.
"We made some improvement offensively. The turnovers were a key and they made some big plays on defense, particularly that last one."
That was by Sheppard, who has five interceptions in nine games.
| | | Cooley's TD lifts 'Skins in defensive battle - 11/27/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Chris Cooley, Jason Campbell, Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith, DeShaun Foster Seeking his first win as an NFL starting quarterback, Jason Campbell faced a vital third down with his team trailing late in the fourth quarter.
Through his helmet transmitter, he heard coach Joe Gibbs call the formation.
Then silence. The transmitter went dead. Campbell had to call the play himself, based on the players sent onto the field.
"We could tell that there was something wrong," right tackle Jon Jansen said. "But he picked up and just took us out there and we ran the play, and it was big."
The play went for 66 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Chris Cooley caught the pass over the middle near midfield, escaped two tacklers and ran down the sideline for the winning score in the Washington Redskins' 17-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
"I didn't hear the play that was called," Campbell said. "I just tried to call one of the plays that we worked on all week that would give us an opportunity to make a first down. Fortunately, God was with me when I made that call, and Cooley did a great job of running after the catch."
The victory broke a two-game losing streak for the Redskins (4-7) and made Campbell a winner in his second start, following Mark Brunell's benching. The Redskins responded well to Gibbs' call to return to his principles of running the ball and stopping the run, but it took the big play to Cooley on a third-and-8 with 4:26 remaining to beat the Panthers (6-5) in a game dominated by defense.
"I felt like today it was kind of our style of football," Gibbs said. "And it was good to get back to that."
For 3½ quarters, the best highlights were two blocked punts and an incredible fourth-quarter catch by Carolina's Steve Smith at the back of the end zone. Ladell Betts, the Redskins featured running back now that Clinton Portis is out for the year, finished with 104 yards on 24 carries. Campbell threw an interception on the previous drive and had only 52 yards passing when he hit Cooley for the make-up touchdown. He finished 11 for 23 for 118 yards with two touchdowns.
"I've never seen him uncomfortable," Gibbs said. "It's an amazing thing about him. He's got that laid-back personality, and from the day he got here. He's never looked like he was feeling pressure or anything." | | | Panthers rally past Buccaneers to wrap up Week 10 in NFL - 11/14/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson, Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith, Bruce Gradkowski, Ronde Barber The Carolina Panthers were a
much-improved team in the second half Monday. They hope this is
also the motto for their season.
The Panthers rebounded from a horrible first half, scoring all
of their points after intermission en route to a 24-10 victory
over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on "Monday Night Football."
Carolina star Steve Smith had eight catches for 149 yards and a
touchdown. He collected five receptions for 117 yards in the
second half, including a 36-yard TD with 3:11 remaining to cap
the scoring.
Smith also struggled in the first half while playing through a
bout of the flu. Television replays captured the Pro Bowl wide
receiver vomiting into a garbage can on the sidelines.
"Everything was coming up water," Smith said. "After a while, I
was dry-heaving."
Jake Delhomme completed 22-of-34 passes for 240 yards and two
touchdowns with an interception for the Panthers, who pulled
within a game of first-place New Orleans in the NFC South.
Carolina (5-4) was inconsistent and sloppy for much Monday's
contest, the same issues that plagued the team over the first
eight games of the season. But coach John Fox hopes this
victory lays the foundation for what will be a strong playoff
push in the wide-open NFC.
"We've started this second season a lot better than we started
the first one," Fox said. "We're 1-0 as opposed to 0-1. All it
means is one more victory and all of our focus will be on St.
Louis next week."
Keyshawn Johnson had six catches for 37 yards, including a
four-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter that gave the
Panthers their first lead, 10-7. The play allowed the former
Buccaneer to atone for his fumble in the opening half that led
to Tampa Bay's lone touchdown.
"I can't say much about the first half, but if I had my
druthers, I'd rather get it finished and our guys did that," Fox
said. "We had some guys step up and keep swinging their sword,
and we were able to pull it out."
The Bucs (2-7) continued to struggle offensively under rookie
Bruce Gradkowski, who completed 17-of-32 passes for 132 yards
with a touchdown. He threw a pair of interceptions and also
lost a fumble.
However, Gradkowski was under duress all day as Pro Bowl
defensive end Julius Peppers recorded all three of Carolina's
sacks. He also recovered Gradkowski's fumble that led to
Johnson's TD catch.
"(Peppers is) a pretty remarkable player," Fox said. "He's
disrupted a few teams along the way, and we're thankful we have
him." | | | Romo, Dallas stun Carolina with big rally - 10/30/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Tony Romo, Steve Smith, DeShaun Foster, Drew Bledsoe, Julius Jones Tony Romo found a way to put a smile back on Bill Parcells' face.
Romo rallied the Cowboys from a 14-point first-quarter deficit, passing for 270 yards and a touchdown, and Julius Jones ran for 94 yards and a score to help the Cowboys beat the Carolina Panthers 35-14. The Cowboys set a team record with 25 fourth-quarter points.
"He's a guy who's been miserable all week," said receiver Terrell Owens, Romo's top target with nine catches for 107 yards. "I asked him coming off the field on Friday, I asked him how it was going and he said he doesn't like to get his butt kicked. As a team, we're tired of losing; we know we have a decent team. We just have to go out and play like it."
Romo, starting in place of the benched Drew Bledsoe, showed poise in slowly leading the Cowboys (4-3) back, using a variety of short passes to different receivers.
Early in the fourth quarter, facing a third-and-12 from the Carolina 21, Romo sidestepped pressure and fired a 16-yard pass to Jason Witten. But the drive stalled when Romo misfired to Witten in the end zone on third down, and Mike Vanderjagt kicked a 24-yard field goal to cut the Panthers' lead to 14-13. | | | Bengals rally past Panthers 17-14 - 10/22/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Chad Johnson, Carson Palmer, Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme The call came in. The gamble was on. The Bengals were putting the game into the pleading hands of Chad Johnson.
The brash receiver had been begging for the chance.
Johnson turned a risky fourth-and-1 call into a diving 32-yard catch, leading to a touchdown and a 17-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers, who couldn't stop the Pro Bowl receiver on the play that mattered most.
"That was the actual play call," Johnson said, noting that offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski made him the first choice. "Bratkowski -- I love you! Thank you! That was a great call.
"In my mind, I was going to come down with it."
He did, of course. Two plays later, the Bengals (4-2) finished a length-of-the-field drive that gave them a welcomed win. They'd lost their last two games and endured a bye week loaded with questions about their tottering offense and their off-target quarterback.
When they needed him most, Carson Palmer finally connected.
Wearing a glove on his passing hand, Palmer struggled with the gusting, swirling wind until the fourth quarter. He went 8 of 9 for 93 yards in the go-ahead drive, culminating in his 1-yard throw to T.J. Houshmandzadeh.
"In this stadium, the wind is different than most places we play in," said Palmer, who was 23 of 39 overall for 240 yards. "At times, it's nice and calm. Perfect. Then a huge gust comes in. It can catch you off-guard." | | | 1:08 pm | CB Reggie Howard leaves Panthers - 10/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Reggie Howard Carolina Panthers cornerback Reggie Howard has left the team for personal reasons, coach John Fox said following today’s practice. Fantasy Impact: Howard is unlikely to play this weekend, but he is the no.4 CB so there won't be much of an impact. | | | Williams, Davis, Wallace miss Panthers' practice (AP) - 10/18/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, Thomas Davis, Al Wallace Thomas Davis and Al Wallace missed practice for the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday and are listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Cincinnati. Running back DeAngelo Williams also missed practice and is doubtful with a sprained right ankle. He is not expected to return for a couple of weeks. Davis, a starting linebacker, suffered a rib injury against Baltimore while Wallace, a reserve defensive... Fantasy Impact: With Williams expected to sit for at least a week or two more, Foster's value rises. The defenses shouldn't slip too much without Davis and Wallace. | | | 1:14 pm | Panthers player off injury list? - 10/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Carolina center Justin Hartwig, who has not played since the season opener because of a groin injury, was not on the team’s injury report today for the first time since he was hurt. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers continue to get healthier and healthier. Hartwig's return would boost an offense that is rounding into form. | | | PANTHERS STAR BACK TO 100%: Smith finds that other gear - 10/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith There was a play in practice Wednesday when Carolina Panthers quarterback Jack Delhomme knew receiver Steve Smith was his old self again. Fantasy Impact: With Smith now at 100%, expect this top-3 WR to continue putting up the numbers he was accustomed to. | | | Cats beat Ravens; Win Fourth Straight - 10/16/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Jake Delhomme, Steve McNair, Steve Smith, Michael Clayton, Lee Suggs Jake Delhomme wasn't about to be upstaged by a backup quarterback who hadn't tossed a touchdown pass since Christmas.
Delhomme threw for a career-high 365 yards and two touchdowns, and Carolina slipped past the Baltimore Ravens 23-21 for its fourth straight win.
After Ravens quarterback Steve McNair left with a concussion and sprained neck in the first quarter, Kyle Boller took over. A starter for three years before being displaced by McNair, Boller threw three touchdown passes to provide Baltimore (4-2) with its biggest scoring output since Week 2.
But every time Boller and the Ravens did something right, Delhomme answered. His favorite target was Steve Smith, who had eight catches for 189 yards and a score.
Smith missed the season's first two games with a thigh injury. The Panthers (4-2) haven't lost since his return.
"When Steve came back, certainly it helped. In my opinion, it's like taking Michael Vick away from Atlanta, like taking Peyton (Manning) away from the Colts," Delhomme said. "Other teams got to account for him on every play."
After Mark Clayton took a tipped pass for a 62-yard touchdown to bring the Ravens to 16-14 with 4:33 to go, Delhomme tossed a 72-yard touchdown pass to Smith on the next play from scrimmage.
"I thought I was going to throw to Keyshawn (Johnson)," Delhomme said. "But when I look, all I see is 89 running down the field with his hand up in the air. A lot of guys were giving me grief on the sidelines, saying they were waiting for the ball to come down."
It landed in Smith's arms, and the speedy receiver carried it into the end zone to deflate the record crowd of 70,762.
| | | Panthers sign Batiste, place Morgan on IR (AP) - 10/14/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan The Carolina Panthers signed guard D'Anthony Batiste on Saturday and placed linebacker Dan Morgan on injured reserve. Morgan announced Wednesday he'll miss the rest of the season due to lingering effects of at least the sixth concussion of his career, suffered in Carolina's season-opening loss to Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: Nothing more than a formality for Morgan. Batiste will just be a backup. | | | PANTHERS NOTEBOOK: Ankle sprain shelves running back Williams - 10/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, DeShaun Foster Carolina Panthers backup running back DeAngelo Williams will not play Sunday in Baltimore. Fantasy Impact: Williams wasn't going to be a good play against a stiff Baltimore defense anyway. Foster's value rises, but he too will be a tough start. | | | Panthers’ Morgan Out for Season - 10/12/2006
Source: NY Times Impacts: Dan Morgan Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan will miss the rest of the season as he struggles to recover from at least the fifth concussion of his career.
“He did meet with the medical people, and they felt it was in his best interest not to play the remainder of the season,” Coach John Fox said yesterday.
Morgan was injured after his head hit the turf in the season-opening loss to Atlanta and had not played or practiced since. He has met with several specialists.
Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams, who has a sprained ankle, will not play Sunday against Baltimore.
| | | Peppers' early season dominance turning heads in the NFL (AP) - 10/11/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Julius Peppers John Fox was so concerned about making the right choice with the No. 2 pick in the 2002 draft that he watched hours and hours of film on Julius Peppers. And it wasn't only football tape. Fox, just hired as coach of the Carolina Panthers, was trying to determine if Peppers, a freakish athlete, didn't play hard on every down. Fantasy Impact: Peppers has been good in IDP leagues so far this year, and while he can be prone to inconsistency, it will be difficult to bench him from this point on. | | | Morgan to miss rest of Panthers season - 10/11/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Dan Morgan 2:09 p.m. Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan will miss the remainder of the season, Coach John Fox said today. Fantasy Impact: Fortunately for the Panthers, their defense has been clicking without him thanks to Peppers. Unfortunately for IDP owners, you can no longer use Morgan at LB. | | | Fox: Morgan's in shape to play when cleared medically - 10/09/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan, sidelined since the season opener with a concussion, continues to make progress towards a return. Fantasy Impact: Already a good defense, the Panthers would get even better with the return of their stud MLB. | | | Panthers' Williams has sprained ankle (AP) - 10/09/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, DeShaun Foster Panthers rookie running back and kick returner DeAngelo Williams has a sprained -- not broken -- right ankle. "Anytime a guy gets hurt you hold your breath," coach John Fox said Monday. "Not that this isn't painful and it may require some time (to heal), but at least it's not broken." Williams was injured as he ran into sea a players in the second quarter of Carolina's 20-12 win over Cleveland on... Fantasy Impact: Luckily for Williams it wasn't worse, but expect to be without his services for a week or two. In the interim, Foster's value receives a boost. | | | Defense sparks Panthers to 20-12 victory - 10/08/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson, Julius Peppers, Charlie Frye, Steve Smith, Phil Dawson Keyshawn Johnson sneaked off to the side of the tunnel, got onto his knees and genuflected as Julius Peppers was introduced to the crowd before the game.
It was fitting, because Peppers and the Carolina defense bailed out the offense.
Peppers had a sack, forced a fumble and hit quarterback Charlie Frye five other times, and Richard Marshall returned an interception for a touchdown as the Panthers beat Cleveland 20-12, even though Johnson and Steve Smith failed to have big games against the Browns' banged-up secondary.
Coming into the game tied for the league lead with five sacks, Peppers was a nightmare for Frye, who was 26 of 43 for 173 yards and two interceptions, the last by Mike Minter that iced it. The Browns managed only four field goals by Phil Dawson.
Carolina (3-2) held the Browns to 98 yards rushing in winning its third straight despite numerous dropped passes on offense and going 0 for 10 on third down.
The Browns (1-4) played without their starting cornerbacks. Gary Baxter missed his third straight game with an injured chest muscle, while Leigh Bodden (sprained ankle) was scratched.
Brodney Pool and Daven Holly started for the Browns, who also lost cornerback Daylon McCutcheon for the season to a knee injury in training camp. Holly then limped off the field late in the game.
Still, they held their own as Johnson had five catches for 67 yards and Smith was held to six catches for 62 yards. But DeShaun Foster rushed for 106 yards.
Smith, who went over 4,000 yards receiving with a second-quarter catch, had three drops, including one in the end zone in the third quarter that led to a field goal.
"I didn't have a very good game. I hold myself to a high standard and I didn't play up to par today," Smith said.
Delhomme was 20 of 29 for 170 yards and no interceptions. He was sacked only once even though Carolina again played without injured center Justin Hartwig.
Panthers rookie running back DeAngelo Williams left in the second quarter with a right ankle injury. But with Peppers dominating, the Panthers never felt threatened.
Notes: Panthers cornerback Ken Lucas, who was not in the starting lineup last week due to poor tackling caused by a neck and shoulder injury, started Sunday. ... Smith joined Muhsin Muhammad as the only receivers to go over 4,000 yards receiving with Carolina ... Thanks to the gloomy weather, there were more than 10,000 no-shows. | | | Panthers' Williams leaves game with injured leg (AP) - 10/08/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: DeAngelo Williams Carolina Panthers rookie running back DeAngelo Williams left Sunday's game against Cleveland after injuring his right ankle on a first-half carry. Williams, a first-round draft pick, was hurt when he went down in a pile on a 4-yard gain with about five minutes left in the second quarter. He had to be helped to the sideline while putting little weight on the leg, then was carted to the locker room... Fantasy Impact: Hopefully this isn't a serious injury for the rookie. If it is, Foster becomes a much more valuable commodity. | | | Panthers use rotation to stay fresh on defense (AP) - 10/06/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Kris Jenkins, Julius Peppers, Mike Rucker, Damione Lewis, Maake Kemoeatu They lumber on and off the field, one 300-pound defensive lineman replacing another as part of the Carolina Panthers' seven-man rotation. The line is best known for former Pro Bowl selections Julius Peppers and Kris Jenkins, but its depth is keeping opposing team's offensive linemen gasping for air. "You look around the league and I don't see guys rotating as effectively as we do," said defensive... Fantasy Impact: This d-line rotation is also being used effectively in Philadelphia, and it is helping them continuously generate pressure. You should continue to use the Carolina defense every week, and Peppers should remain a starter in IDP leagues. | | | 12:47 pm | Shaun Williams 'doubtful' for Sunday - 10/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Shaun Williams Carolina Panthers safety Shaun Williams, who has been struggling with an injured foot, did not practice today and has been downgraded from questionable to doubtful for Sunday's game with Cleveland at Bank of America Stadium. Fantasy Impact: This shouldn't have a major effect against a subpar Cleveland team. Bench him if you have him in IDP leagues. | | | The Steve Smith factor - 10/06/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, Keyshawn Johnson, DeShaun Foster The prognosticators and talking heads of the sports world were in full force after the second week of the NFL season, as quick to write off Steve Smith and the 0-2 Panthers as they were in making them their Super Bowl pick. Fantasy Impact: Those of you who got scared away in the first 2 weeks can return to using Panthers offensive players every week now that Smith is back in form. | | | Panthers sign Davis to shore up thin linebacker crew - 10/05/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Rod Davis With middle linebacker Dan Morgan already ruled out for a fourth straight contest due to the after-effects of the concussion he suffered in the opening game of the year, the Carolina Panthers on Thursday signed veteran linebacker Rod Davis to address a sh Fantasy Impact: Little or no fantasy impact, as Davis will likely be a backup until Morgan returns. | | | 1:17 pm | Panther's Morgan misses practice - 10/05/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan did not practice today, but he did return to the practice fields for some individual running drills. Fantasy Impact: Morgan may not be able to play this weekend, but his return would really boost an already good defense. | | | 1:10 pm | Seidman suffers torn anterior cruciate ligament - 10/04/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Mike Seidman The Carolina Panthers have lost tight end Mike Seidman to a torn anterior cruciate ligament, coach John Fox said following today's practice. Fantasy Impact: Seidman wasn't expected to be a fantasy factor, so this shouldn't affect any teams. | | | 3:18 pm | Panthers center Hartwig ready to return - 10/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Carolina Panthers center Justin Hartwig, who has been out with a groin injury since the season opener, is expected to practice Wednesday, a source close to the situation said. Fantasy Impact: The o-line has suffered through injuries in the early going, so getting Hartwig back would be a big boost for the offense. | | | INJURED PANTHER: Lucas to start when healthy - 10/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Ken Lucas Cornerback Ken Lucas will get his starting job back when he recovers from a nagging neck and shoulder injury, Carolina Panthers coach John Fox said Monday. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers have the depth to survive without Lucas, but his return would solidify the pass defense. Watch for his return to the lineup if you use him in IDP leagues. | | | 3:58 pm | Fox: Morgan plans to play again - 10/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan is planning to play football again, Panthers coach John Fox said today at his weekly press conference. Fantasy Impact: Morgan is the best LB on the Panthers when healthy, and his return would boost an already strong defense. However, his long injury history could make that difficult, so don't prepare for a return soon. | | | Panthers tag first loss on Saints, 21-18 - 10/01/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Reggie Bush, Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster, Marques Colston Six days after their emotional return to New Orleans, the Saints were due for a letdown.
They still gave Carolina all it could handle -- until Steve Smith got loose late.
Jake Delhomme threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Drew Carter midway through the fourth quarter to put the Panthers ahead to stay as Carolina handed New Orleans its first loss of the season, 21-18.
| | | Wallace Fined $7,500 For Hit On Simms - 09/30/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Al Wallace, Chris Simms The NFL has fined Carolina Panthers defensive end Al Wallace $7,500 for a hit on Bucs quarterback Chris Simms in Tampa Bay's 26-24 loss last Sunday.
There was no penalty on the play, but after reviewing the game tape, the league ruled Wallace's hit in the fourth quarter was unnecessary roughness.
Simms, who had emergency surgery to remove a ruptured spleen after the game, was knocked hard to the ground by Wallace with a little more than six minutes remaining.
Though Simms endured several jarring hits and had to leave the game briefly near the end of the third quarter, Coach Jon Gruden believes it was the Wallace hit that caused the spleen injury. | | | Big hit on Simms draws fine - 09/30/2006
Source: Orlando Sentinel Impacts: Chris Simms, Al Wallace Carolina defensive lineman Al Wallace has been fined $7,500 by the NFL for an illegal hit to Tampa Bay quarterback Chris Simms in the fourth quarter of the Panthers' victory last Sunday.
Though Simms took a number of punishing hits in the game, Buccaneers Coach Jon Gruden said he believes it was the one by Wallace -- on a second-and-7 play from Carolina's 8 -- that caused Simms' spleen to rupture and required surgery. No penalty was called.
The NFL termed Wallace's hit "unnecessary roughness," citing Rule 12, Section 2 of the rulebook as the basis of the fine.
"A rushing defender is prohibited from committing such intimidating and punishing acts as 'stuffing' a passer into the ground or unnecessarily wresting or driving him down after the passer has thrown the ball, even if the rusher makes his initial contact within the one-step limitation. . . . When tackling a passer who is virtually in a defenseless posture [e.g., during or just after throwing a pass], a defensive player must not unnecessarily and violently throw him down and land on top of him with all or most of the defender's weight." | | | Bucs indicate NFL has issue with big hit - 09/28/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Chris Simms, Al Wallace, Bruce Gradkowski The NFL apparently agreed with the Bucs that the fourth-quarter hit on quarterback Chris Simms that might have ruptured his spleen Sunday warranted a roughing-the-passer penalty.
Coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen said Wednesday that they had received notification from the league regarding the blow Simms sustained from Carolina lineman Al Wallace. Although neither divulged the findings, both encouraged reporters to contact Mike Pereira, the league's supervisor of officials.
A message left at Pereira's office was not returned Wednesday.
Simms had emergency surgery to remove his spleen after the Bucs' 26-24 loss. While no one is certain which play injured Simms, he is likely out for the season.
"We're all very depressed and sick about how (Simms') season ended," Gruden said. "You check with the league yourself and see if that wasn't a personal foul. | | | NOTEBOOK: Smith is still fine after 1st game - 09/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith After returning to action with a splash in Sunday's 24-23 victory at Tampa Bay, Steve Smith had no aftereffects when he returned to practice Wednesday. Fantasy Impact: Good news for Smith owners, as he has no ill effects from the hamstring that kept him out the first 2 games. You know well enough to start him the rest of the season. | | | Panthers' Morgan won't play against Saints - 09/27/2006
Source: Yahoo Impacts: Dan Morgan, Mike Seidman Linebacker Dan Morgan and tight end Mike Seidman won't play Sunday against New Orleans.
Morgan hasn't played since suffering at least the fifth concussion of his career in the season opener against Atlanta. Seidman hurt his knee in last Sunday's win over Tampa Bay.
Coach John Fox said there is no target date for Morgan's return.
"He seems to be doing fine," Fox said. "He's working out. He's in meetings. He's doing everything that all the other guys are doing." | | | Smith sparks offense - 09/26/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster, Keyshawn Johnson Much of the Carolina Panthers' offensive improvement in their 26-24 win at Tampa Bay Sunday must be because of the return of receiver Steve Smith, who missed the first two games with a hamstring injury. Smith caught seven passes for 112 yards and eased the pressure on every other facet of the offense just by being on the field. Fantasy Impact: We finally got to see what the full Panthers offense could do, and I think we were pretty impressed. You can feel confident in starting your Panthers' players now. | | | Can't-miss Kasay's four field goals are key to Panthers' victory - 09/25/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: John Kasay, Steve Smith Kickers have been the culprits in plenty of heartbreaking losses in the NFL, but the Panthers had no trouble identifying their MVP after Sunday's victory.
"Thank God for John Kasay," Carolina coach John Fox said.
Kasay, the kicker since the franchise's inaugural season in 1995 and the team's only remaining original player, was the hero four times over in the Panthers' 26-24 victory. And none of his four field goals could be classified as a chip shot.
Kasay made kicks from 51, 50, 49 and 46 yards. His last was the shortest, but also the biggest. The winner came with two seconds left.
The Bucs could only watch.
"Field-goal kickers do make their money in games like this," Bucs defensive end Greg Spires said.
Carolina receiver Steve Smith, who led the league last season in receptions and yards, played after missing the first two games because of hamstring injuries. Smith was the game's leading receiver with seven catches for 117 yards. | | | Keyshawn's big return - 09/25/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson Keyshawn Johnson met Bucs coach Jon Gruden at the middle of the field after the Panthers' 26-24 win over Tampa Bay.
Johnson, who had scored touchdowns on a 31-yard reception and a 4-yard run, extended his hand as Gruden shouted in his ear.
"He said, 'I'm proud of you, man,' " Johnson said of Gruden. " 'You came back in here and kicked my a--.' Then you know what else he said after that? 'I love you, man.' "
As Johnson walked through the tunnel to the locker room at Raymond James Stadium, a fan poured a cup of beer over his head.
And that pretty much sums up the love-hate relationship between the Bucs and Johnson.
The 34-year-old receiver finished with seven catches for 97 yards, falling one shy of the career 10,000-yard plateau. He was helped by the return of Steve Smith, who led the Panthers with seven catches for 112 yards. | | | Bucs' Smith Enjoys Breakout Game - 09/25/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Alex Smith(TE), Steve Smith, Chris Simms, Carnell Williams, Michael Clayton Carolina WR Steve Smith had his 2006 coming out party Sunday.
The other Smith in the game, Bucs TE Alex Smith, had his own regular regular-season coming-out party.
Smith led the Bucs with four receptions for 72 yards, which included a 22-yard reception on a flea flicker early in the second quarter. QB Chris Simms handed off to RB Cadillac Williams on first-and-10 from the Bucs' 41-yard line. Williams then pitched the ball back to Simms, who hit Smith for 22 yards.
The play was part of the Bucs' first scoring drive and led to the team's first touchdown of the season.
"It was something we put in this week," Smith said. "We know their safeties like to bite hard on the run, so we thought we'd take advantage of that and go with the flea flicker. Originally, it was supposed to go to Mike Clayton, but the safeties didn't play hard that time and I was left wide open."
Smith hauled in another big reception for 27 yards to help set up the Bucs' go-ahead field goal with a little more than five minutes remaining in the game. It was his third catch of the game that went for a first down.
"It's something I've been waiting for and fortunately my number was called this week," Smith said. "It still doesn't mean too much when we don't win the game, so it's kind of hard to smile about, the performance I had." | | | Simms' Season Likely Over - 09/25/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Chris Simms, Bruce Gradkowski, Kris Jenkins, Michael Clayton Chris Simms' season is probably over. His career as an NFL quarterback may be in jeopardy as well.
Simms, who was named the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starting quarterback a few months before the start of the 2006 season, had his spleen removed during an emergency operation following Sunday's 26-24 loss to the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium.
Simms is expected to be hospitalized for several days.
The operation became necessary after Simms was hurt during the first half of Sunday's game, one in which he was hit hard on several occasions, including once while running for a touchdown in the third quarter. Carolina defensive tackle Kris Jenkins delivered a big hit in the first half.
Simms was seen being loaded into an ambulance immediately after the game, and he was admitted to St. Joseph's Hospital. His condition was listed as stable following the operation, Bucs officials said. During the surgery he had a blood transfusion.
Bucs wide receiver Michael Clayton said Simms' teammates noticed early in the game that something was wrong.
"He was in the huddle at times muffling over his words and taking deep breaths in between calling plays because he couldn't talk," Clayton said. "He was definitely dazed a little bit."
Simms dropped to one knee on the field near the end of the third quarter and was walked into the locker room by Diaco. Simms was evaluated and later sent back into the game. Rookie quarterback Bruce Gradkowski relieved Simms for two plays.
The normal recovery time is said to be at least six weeks, and it's not unusual for athletes to undergo the operation and return to action.
For example, Peter Fors-berg, a forward with the Philadelphia Flyers of the National Hockey League, had his spleen removed in May 2001. He missed the entire 2001-02 NHL regular season but returned for the playoffs.
How the Bucs will replace Simms is unknown. The likelihood is that Gradkowski will take over, but the Bucs have two weeks before their next game, so they have time to consider other options.
One possibility could be veteran Jay Fiedler, who was with the Bucs during training camp, but his surgically repaired throwing shoulder was not sound, and he was released. | | | Bucs' Simms has spleen removed after loss to Carolina - 09/24/2006
Source: ESPN.com Impacts: Chris Simms Buccaneers quarterback Chris Simms had his spleen removed at a Tampa, Fla., hospital after rupturing it in Sunday's 26-24 loss to Carolina, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports.
Buccaneers quarterback Chris Simms had his spleen removed at a Tampa, Fla., hospital after rupturing it in Sunday's 26-24 loss to Carolina, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports.
According to a source close to Simms' family, the quarterback's condition has been stabilized after surgery, during which he received blood transfusions.
It is thought the injury occurred in the second quarter. Simms took several hard hits and left the game for two plays in the second half but returned to help the Bucs take the lead in the fourth quarter.
Simms also has bruised ribs. He is being treated at St. Joseph's Hospital.
Lisa Patterson, a spokeswoman for St. Joseph's Hospital, said any other information would have to come from the Buccaneers, who declined to comment or confirm that the fourth-year pro was being treated a few blocks from Raymond James Stadium.
Simms walked from the field on his own power late in the third quarter and again at the end the game, which Carolina won when John Kasay kicked a 42-yard field goal with 2 seconds remaining. He completed 13 of 24 passes for 139 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
Simms usually is made available for postgame interviews, however the Bucs said he would not speak to reporters because he was being examined by trainers and doctors. | | | Last-second FG gives Panthers 26-24 win - 09/24/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson, Jake Delhomme, John Kasay, Chris Simms, Steve Smith Keyshawn Johnson insisted returning to Tampa Bay for the first time in three years was more about Carolina getting its first victory than him getting personal satisfaction against his former team.
Thanks to Jake Delhomme -- and a big game from the mercurial Johnson -- the loquacious receiver got both Sunday.
Johnson scored two touchdowns and Delhomme led a last-minute drive that produced John Kasay's fourth long field goal of the day with 2 seconds remaining, giving the Panthers a 26-24 victory over the winless Bucs.
Johnson finished with seven receptions for 97 yards. Steve Smith returned after missing Carolina's first two games with a sore hamstring and had seven catches for 112 yards for the Panthers (1-2).
Simms rebounded from a shaky first quarter to get the Bucs (0-3) back in the game. He threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Joey Galloway in the second quarter, then took advantage of three second-half turnovers to put his team into a position to win.
Simeon Rice forced two third-quarter fumbles for Tampa Bay, and Shelton Quarles forced a third to set up Matt Bryant's 28-yard field goal for a 24-23 Bucs lead with five minutes remaining.
Tampa Bay got the ball back with less than three minutes to go, but was unable to get a first down and run out the clock.
Simms, who left the game for two plays in the second half because of cramps, was 13-of-24 for 139 yards. Carnell "Cadillac" Williams rushed for 48 yards on 19 carries and scored on a 4-yard run in the third quarter.
Carolina won for the sixth time in the last seven meetings between the NFC rivals. Delhomme improved to 4-0 at Raymond James Stadium. | | | WR Smith travels with team - 09/24/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Steve Smith made the trip with the Carolina Panthers on Saturday, but it remains to be seen if he'll play in today's game with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Fantasy Impact: Panthers' fantasy owners are praying that Smith is in the lineup, because the offense has struggled mightily without him. Watch the injury reports leading up to gametime. | | | Return to God's country - 09/24/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson Keyshawn Johnson, playing in Tampa for the first time since 2003, doesn't mince words about his banishment or former coach Jon Gruden.
"I'll get no sleep on Saturday, but guess where I will be?" Johnson asks rhetorically during his show. "Oh, yeah. God's country. I'm going to see God."
Although he never mentions him by name, everyone knows Johnson is referring to Gruden, the coach who helped put a Super Bowl ring on his finger as well as the biggest stain on his career.
The uniform has changed, but Johnson is the same. At 34, he still attacks the football in the air like few receivers in the game. Playing without injured receiver Steve Smith, Johnson caught five passes for 106 yards in a 16-13 overtime loss last week at Minnesota.
The defeat left the Panthers, picked by many to win the Super Bowl, tied with Tampa Bay at 0-2 in the cellar of the NFC South.
With a season circling the drain, Johnson has bigger concerns than facing his former coach. After all, it was nearly three years and two teams ago when Johnson grew upset over his reduced role in Gruden's offense, including two games in which he caught just one pass. | | | Panthers Rookie Back Looks For Wiggle Room - 09/24/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, DeShaun Foster One of the main priorities for the Bucs defense today is to deny DeAngelo Williams wiggle room.
After only two games, the shifty first-round pick out of Memphis is threatening to supplant DeShaun Foster as Carolina's featured back.
Williams, who set an NCAA record with 7,753 all-purpose yards, didn't carry the ball against Atlanta in Week 1, but he closed the opening quarter last week at Minnesota with a 19-yard burst off left tackle on his first pro rushing attempt.
"Everything DeAngelo has done at college, he's done the same thing here," Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme said. "He's got some wiggle to him and he has a lot of power and quickness and great vision. He showed what he could do last week and he's a guy who gets stronger as the game goes on." | | | A Season Hangs In The Balance - 09/24/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Chris Simms, Steve Smith There's no sense in trying to dress up the picture with a bunch of colorful cliches - you know, that stuff about backs pressed up against the wall and toes perched on the edge of the abyss.
The ugly truth of the matter is this: The loser of today's game between the 0-2 Bucs and the 0-2 Carolina Panthers pretty much can kiss any hope of going to the playoffs goodbye.
If you think that's a bit extreme, then we invite you to chew on this dose of reality: Since the NFL adopted its current playoff format in 1990, only three teams have started 0-3 and rallied to reach the playoffs. | | | Intriguing options at RB position - 09/23/2006
Source: Miami Herald Impacts: Reggie Bush, Samkon Gado, Wali Lundy, Deuce McAllister, DeAngelo Williams Though it is still early in the season, there are intriguing developments at the running back position that will impact fantasy teams.
Intriguing, that is, if you own the ''vultures'' that may steal playing time from the starters. Depressing, of course, if you have that aforementioned No. 1 running back and worry about that player losing carries.
Here is a quick analysis of key ongoing battles:
• Texans: I wonder if the Texans called the Saints to see if Reggie Bush was available and then settled on Samkon Gado. I'm not sold on Wali Lundy, and before long, Gado could be seeing the lion's share of the workload. Ron Dayne has short-term value, but in the end, Gado should be getting touches.
• Saints: I suspect this two-headed monster will continue if the Saints keep winning. Bush will be used in a Brian Westbrook-type role. As I wrote last week, expect some miserable weeks from Bush. If you drafted him, you likely took him higher than he should have gone and have to stick with him. Right now, Deuce McAllister is a solid flex play and Bush is an RB2 who will develop into an RB1.
• Panthers: As the proud papa to DeAngelo Williams, I have a vested interest in this battle. This might be a good time to dump Foster, while he still has some semblance of value. The Panthers are still calling Foster their No. 1 back, so use that to your advantage to either purge Foster or attain Williams.
• Titans: Chris Brown is about as useful as a cavity and his sell high was after his 64-yard and one touchdown performance during the opening week. Travis Henry had two TDs the first week of the season, but he is nursing an injury. By midseason, the Titans will have no alternative other than to hand off to LenDale White. Jump on him now, stash him on your bench and ride out his learning curve. Henry, if healthy, has the most short-term value.
• Patriots: Another two-headed monster. Corey Dillon and rookie Laurence Maroney should continue to split carries. Before the year, I gave the edge to Maroney and still like his upside more than Dillon. But as long as the Patriots win, this will be a split-carry situation.
• Colts: I don't buy into coach Tony Dungy's comments that Dominic Rhodes and Joseph Addai will continue to split carries. Addai will be the man before long, so make a hard push for him before it is too late. Hit the road on Rhodes and buy on Addai.
| | | Bolden Gets Task Of Defending Smith - 09/23/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Juran Bolden, Steve Smith, Brian Kelly Bucs cornerback Brian Kelly is out for Sunday's game against Carolina, and it looks as if the Panthers' Steve Smith is in. If so, one of the league's most dynamic receivers will be facing a depleted Tampa Bay secondary.
Can anyone say unfair advantage?
No problem, the Bucs say, because Juran Bolden will start in Kelly's place for the second consecutive game.
"He'll get a challenge, now, no doubt about it," Bucs defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin said. "He likes the challenge, though. He won't back down from anybody."
Bolden earned Kiffin's respect last season when he brought him in to fill an important role in the Tampa 2 scheme - the nickelback position. It was a position lacking in depth before Bolden arrived. | | | Smith practices with Panthers, will be game-time decision (AP) - 09/22/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith practiced for the second straight day Friday as he recovers from a strained right hamstring. "He looked good," said coach John Fox, who indicated it will be a game-time decision if Smith plays Sunday at Tampa Bay. Smith, who led the NFL in receiving last season, missed Carolina's first two games after being injured in practice on Sept. Fantasy Impact: Smith owners can start planning for his debut on Sunday, but keep his backup ready just in case. | | | Panthers keep Bucs company in basement - 09/22/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Steve Smith, Richard Marshall The cellar of the NFC South has two dwellers: the defending division champion Bucs and the Panthers, picked by many to reach the Super Bowl.
Both are 0-2 and fighting to keep their seasons from spoiling quicker than milk.
"It's a 16-game season. We're 0-2, that's the reality," Panthers coach John Fox said. "I liken it to being in a slump. Guys that rally out of it, you just hope it doesn't last long. That's our goal right now. We're playing a team that I'm sure is not where they expected to be after two games, either. So it's going to take a lot of pride, a lot of effort on our team's part."
All-Pro receiver Steve Smith, who missed the first two weeks with a hamstring strain, has begun some light running and is questionable for Sunday's game at Raymond James Stadium.
And last weekend, the Panthers defeated themselves. Leading by a touchdown with about 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter at Minnesota, Fox ordered a lateral on a punt return. But defensive back Chris Gamble skipped his pass to teammate Richard Marshall, and the Vikings recovered at the Carolina 21. | | | Rice (Knee) Added To Crowded Injury Report - 09/22/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Simeon Rice, Brian Kelly, Anthony McFarland, Chris Hovan, Ryan Nece And then there were six - as in six healthy defensive starters.
DE Simeon Rice (knee) was added to the injury report Thursday, bringing the total to five starters - three defensive linemen - who are listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina.
He joins CB Brian Kelly (toe), DT Anthony McFarland (hip), NT Chris Hovan (ankle) and LB Ryan Nece (knee) among the walking wounded.
"We've got a few injuries, but so does everybody else," Coach Jon Gruden said. "This is a big-enough game where hopefully the men that are questionable for the game find the strength that they need to play." | | | Safety Branch likely to start against Bucs - 09/22/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Colin Branch, Shaun Williams As Shaun Williams limped around the Metrodome on Sunday, fellow Carolina Panthers safety Mike Minter offered some advice.
Fantasy Impact: If you were planning on using Williams, bench him. Branch isn't worth a pickup until he shows that he can be an IDP force. | | | Steve Smith returns to practice - 09/21/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith 1:16 p.m. Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith returned to practice today for the first time since Sept. 5. Fantasy Impact: Good sign for Smith owners. He is not yet a definite starter, but this moves him closer to finally doing something for fantasy teams. | | | Cornerback Kelly's status remains in flux - 09/21/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Brian Kelly, Anthony McFarland, Ryan Nece, Chris Hovan, Dave Moore Cornerback Brian Kelly's status for Sunday's crucial South Division home game against Carolina took a slight downturn Wednesday.
Kelly, sidelined with turf toe, was listed as questionable, though coach Jon Gruden had considered him probable earlier in the week.
"We're still getting information," Gruden said. "He's coming back with the information from the doctor that looked at his foot. Because of that, I've listed him as questionable. We're optimistic, but we're also realistic so we're downgrading him to questionable for the game."
Also listed as questionable are defensive tackle Anthony McFarland (hip injury), linebacker Ryan Nece (knee) and defensive tackle Chris Hovan (ankle sprain). Tight end Dave Moore (broken rib) and offensive guard Davin Joseph (right knee) are listed as out. Hovan practiced, though the other questionables did not. | | | Now separated, Gruden and Keyshawn say it was sweet before it went so sour - 09/21/2006
Source: St. Petersburg Times Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson Keyshawn Johnson and Jon Gruden never saw eye to eye. But that doesn't mean the 6-foot-4 receiver always looked down on the Bucs' 5-foot-9 coach.
Johnson, 34, returns to Tampa Bay on Sunday for the first time since he was deactivated by the team with six games remaining in the 2003 season.
At the time, Gruden considered Johnson a cancer in the locker room that needed to be removed.
But three years and two teams later, Johnson has found something he and Gruden can agree upon: Their strained relationship resulted in a Super Bowl ring.
"I think it was a great relationship," Johnson said Wednesday after practice with the Panthers. "We won a world championship. I accomplished the one thing (former Bucs general manager) Rich McKay asked me to do when I got there ... to help them win championships, and I did that. | | | Johnson doesn't pass the Bucs - 09/21/2006
Source: Charlotte.com Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson Sunday, Carolina Panthers receiver Keyshawn Johnson returns to Tampa Bay, where he finished the 2002 season with a Super Bowl ring.
He finished the 2003 season, though, on the deactivated list, having missed the final six games on the decision of Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden.
Johnson moved on, first to Dallas for two years and now to Carolina. This season, he has avoided discussing Gruden and his deactivation. Until Wednesday.
Johnson started out talking about the positives of his stay with Tampa Bay, and insisted that he has never brooded about the deactivation and has no problem with Gruden. Finally, though, he shed a bit more light on the situation.
"There's a reason why I got deactivated, or whatever word it is you print, and there is a reason why the general manager (Rich McKay) left," Johnson said. "And there is a reason, that is what I say.
"Things don't just disintegrate. There's a reason you put something into water and it disintegrates -- because it doesn't mix. It doesn't work. There was a reason the general manager left. There's a reason I was deactivated. It's part of the business. | | | Smith responds angrily to rumor he's holding out for new contract (AP) - 09/20/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Steve Smith heard the rumor: He's coming back slowly from his hamstring injury as a ploy to get a new contract. The wide receiver shredded that theory Wednesday as he tries to work his way back onto the field for the Carolina Panthers. "For the people who are insulting me and this organization, who think I'm going to stoop down to that level, that's not me," Smith said. Fantasy Impact: If Smith is really holding out for contractual purposes, fantasy owners would not be pleased. However, he deems this merely a rumor, so you can relax a little. | | | 1:16 pm | Smith questionable for Sunday's game - 09/20/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith did not practice today, but he did return to the practice field. He did some running on the adjoining field while practice was going on, practicing routes. Fantasy Impact: Once again, you'll have to play the game with Smith and watch the injury reports closely leading up to Sunday. | | | Rookie was good, but Foster's still starting - 09/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams Despite rookie DeAngelo Williams' splashy effort at Minnesota (13 carries, 74 yards), Fox said DeShaun Foster (13 carries, 26 yards) remains the starting running back. Fantasy Impact: Expect a few more reps for Williams in games, reducing Foster's value. | | | CHANGE IN RUNNING BACK ROTATION?: Williams gives offense a jolt - 09/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams From the moment DeAngelo Williams entered the lineup Sunday, the Carolina Panthers' offense seemed to get a boost. Fantasy Impact: Good news for Williams' owners, bad news for Foster owners (unless you handcuffed the two). Don't be surprised to see a more equitable split of carries, which reduces the value of Foster while increasing the value of Williams. | | | NOTEBOOK: Peppers puts on a show in Minnesota - 09/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Julius Peppers Only a penalty by an opposing player kept Carolina defensive end Julius Peppers from setting a single-game career high for sacks Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings.Peppers sacked Brad Johnson three times and Johnson avoided a fourth by throwing the ball as Peppers was flinging him to the ground, drawing an intentional grounding penalty. Fantasy Impact: Though Peppers wasn't facing the powerful left side of the Vikings' line, getting 3 sacks shows just how gifted he is. Don't expect many performances like this though. | | | Vikings edge Panthers 16-13 in OT - 09/17/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Ryan Longwell, Richard Owens, Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, Julius Peppers Ryan Longwell caught the pitch, rolled right, let the ball go and connected with Vikings tight end Richard Owens for the game-tying score.
With Longwell's three field goals and a clutch touchdown pass on a fake -- plus a defense that forced nine punts -- the Vikings showed again that they don't need a flashy, high-flying offense to win.
The Panthers, a popular Super Bowl pick, were clearly frustrated. They're struggling in several areas, including staying healthy -- with All-Pro Steve Smith, who totaled 201 yards receiving against Minnesota last season, absent again because of a strained right hamstring.
Peppers did his part with three of his team's five sacks, plus a blocked 51-yard field goal. Keyshawn Johnson had five receptions for 106 yards, but Carolina has only 19 points through two games.
"It's disappointing, but nobody feels sorry for us," quarterback Jake Delhomme said. "You have to go back to work and try to get better." | | | Hartwig to miss today's game - 09/17/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster, Keyshawn Johnson Add another starter to the list of Carolina Panthers missing today's game against the Minnesota Vikings. Fantasy Impact: Now with 2 starting linemen gone, as well as the top WR, you may have to bench any Carolina players you have. | | | Gameday: Carolina at Minnesota - 09/17/2006
Source: Charlotte.com Impacts: Kevin Williams, Steve Smith Key Matchup
CAROLINA LG MIKE WAHLE VS. MINNESOTA DT KEVIN WILLIAMS
Wahle is solid and experienced, but will likely need help at times against Williams, whose speed makes him difficult to block. Williams is strong and quick, with a fast first step and several nice moves. Williams is looking to bounce back from last season's four-sack effort; he reached double figures each of his first two years.
The line of scrimmage: With Carolina receiver Steve Smith (hamstring) on the sidelines, Atlanta's defense crowded the line to shut down the run and pressure quarterback Jake Delhomme. Smith is still hurt, and the Panthers can expect much of the same today.
| | | PANTHERS INJURIES: 8:08 pm | Panthers' Smith, Morgan out vs. Vikings - 09/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith, Dan Morgan, Nick Goings Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith did not travel with the team Saturday and will miss today's game against the Minnesota Vikings. Fantasy Impact: Do not start any of these players on Sunday. Downgrade the Panthers overall as well, since they are without two key players. | | | Seward rising - 09/15/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Adam Seward The first quarter of the first Carolina Panthers' game had not yet ended Sunday, but Carolina middle linebacker Dan Morgan was sitting on a sideline bench, trying to shake off the cobwebs of another concussion.
Fantasy Impact: With Morgan out, Seward will start in the middle of the Panthers D. He could rack up tackles for IDP leagues, but the team defense will suffer without its top LB. | | | Smith, Hartwig sit out Panthers' workout (AP) - 09/15/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Steve Smith, the league's top receiver last season, missed practice again Friday with the Carolina Panthers because of a hamstring injury and is questionable for this weekend's game at Minnesota. Smith has been out since straining his right hamstring in practice Sept. 5. Without Smith, the Panthers failed to score a touchdown in their 20-6 season-opening loss to Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: Once again, you will likely have to look to your 2nd option this week if you own the Panthers' star WR. Additionally, with Hartwig missing time, downgrade the rest of the starting Carolina offense. | | | Smith's status still up in air - 09/14/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith With Carolina receiver Steve Smith still out with an injured hamstring, it's not certain that he will be back in the lineup for Sunday's game at Minnesota. Fellow wideout Keyshawn Johnson, though, doesn't want Smith rushed back into action. Fantasy Impact: This is not a good sign for Smith owners, who may be without the top-5 WR's services for two weeks now. Most likely he will have to be benched, but watch the injury reports leading up to game time. Overall, you have to be worried about how effective he will be the entire season, which is a tough thing for who was likely a 2nd-round pick in most drafts. | | | ANALYSIS: Injuries, poor play leave offensive line in flux - 09/14/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith, DeShaun Foster They have one season-ending injury, another that could be significant and a suddenly open competition at another spot. Fantasy Impact: The offensive line has way too many questions for a team that is supposed to be Super Bowl-bound. Downgrade all Panthers offensive players for this week. | | | Panthers' Morgan Out, Smith Questionable - 09/14/2006
Source: The Herald Sun Impacts: Dan Morgan, Steve Smith Carolina linebacker Dan Morgan will not play in Sunday's game at Minnesota as he recovers from a concussion.
All-Pro receiver Steve Smith and center Justin Hartwig also missed practice Wednesday and were listed as questionable for the game.
Smith strained his left hamstring during practice Sept. 5 and hasn't been on the field since. The team would only say that he remains day-to-day.
Drew Carter started in place of Smith last Sunday and had five catches for 62 yards. | | | Injuries, poor play leave offensive line in flux - 09/14/2006
Source: Charlotte.com Impacts: Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams Two days after learning that starting left tackle Travelle Wharton would miss the rest of the season, the Panthers added center Justin Hartwig to the injury report with a groin problem.
After yanking right guard Evan Mathis from the lineup in the second half of Sunday's loss to Atlanta, coach John Fox said the position is up for grabs.
When the Panthers play at Minnesota on Sunday, the offensive line could have new faces at as many as four positions. | | | TOM SORENSEN: Day-to-day for Smith -- and Panthers - 09/13/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith I'm a techno peasant. I've never seen a podcast. Just give me some football, some running shoes, a little sunshine, something cool to drink and I'm fine. Fantasy Impact: Now we don't know whether Smith will suit up in week 2. After seeing the week 1 performance, owners of other Panthers may have more to gain if Smith plays than his owners. Keep a close eye on this. | | | 3:45 pm | Panthers sign tackle Jeremy Bridges - 09/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Jake Delhomme The Panthers filled Travelle Wharton's roster spot. Now, they have to fill his position. Fantasy Impact: This is mainly for depth, but Bridges could emerge as a starter at tackle. Either way, the Panthers' fantasy outlook took a big hit with Wharton's injury. | | | Concussion No. 4 takes Morgan out - 09/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan With Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Dan Morgan suffering another concussion during Sunday's game with Atlanta, the question becomes whether the head injuries are becoming chronic for one of the team's best players. Fantasy Impact: Once again, the Panthers' stud MLB succumbs to an injury. Bench him until further notice, and move the Panthers D down. | | | Wharton will miss Panthers season - 09/11/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith, Keyshawn Johnson Carolina Panthers offensive tackle Travelle Wharton will miss the rest of the season, team officials said Monday afternoon. Fantasy Impact: Wharton wasn't the best player on the o-line, but he was a fast-improving one, and was depended to protect Delhomme's blindside. His loss will force major shuffling along the line, something fantasy owners do not want to hear. Move the skill players down until the new o-line can jell. | | | Injury leads to upheaval in trenches - 09/11/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme All the talk about the Carolina Panthers reaching the Super Bowl this season always has the qualifier that any NFL team must consider these days -- if they stay healthy. Fantasy Impact: The last thing an offense needs is to have their o-line shuffled during a season. Move everyone on the Panthers offense down until Wharton returns. | | | Kerney leaves with arm injury (AP) - 09/10/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Patrick Kerney, Dan Morgan Atlanta defensive end Patrick Kerney left Sunday's game against Carolina with an arm injury, while the Panthers lost linebacker Dan Morgan and left tackle Travelle Wharton. Kerney suffered a right triceps strain in the first quarter. His return was questionable. Morgan was shaken up in the second quarter, and his return was also questionable. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully both are fine and can play next week, as they are keys to their defense. Keep an eye on the postgame report. | | | 11:40 am | Steve Smith declared inactive for opener - 09/10/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith All-Pro receiver Steve Smith will miss today's opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Fantasy Impact: You already knew to bench him by now. | | | Falcons 20, Panthers 6 (AP) - 09/10/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Macon Impacts: Warrick Dunn, Michael Vick, John Abraham, Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster Warrick Dunn figured Atlanta's dominating performance over Super Bowl favorite Carolina would come as a surprise. "Most people didn't think we could do that," said Dunn after he rushed for 132 yards in the Falcons' 20-6 win over the Panthers on Sunday. "We've added some guys who have been to the Pro Bowl. Fantasy Impact: While Vick didn't have great passing numbers as usual, he was respectable. The running game was in midseason form, putting up over 250 yards. Norwood got 10 carries while Dunn got 29. The Panthers offense sputtered without top WR Smith, as Delhomme completed barely over 50% and was picked once, while Foster ran for only 54 yards. Much was due to pressure by the Falcons' d-line, which put up four sacks, two by Abraham. Overall, a great game for the Falcons, and a poor one for the Panthers. | | | Dislike runs deep between Falcons, Panthers - 09/09/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Vick, Chris Draft, DeAngelo Hall, Steve Smith Late in a meaningless preseason game last month, Carolina's public address announcer identified Marcus Vick as Miami's punt returner. Fantasy Impact: Tempers are running high for this rivalry. Both teams will leave it all on the field, and you can expect some monster fantasy performances. | | | 12:21 pm | Panthers' Smith sits out again - 09/08/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith missed his third straight day of practice Friday with a sore right hamstring, putting into doubt whether he'll play in the season opener against Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: At this point, Smith should be out of your lineup. Even if he does start, he won't have much of an impact with the lack of reps. Put in your backup and hope for the best. | | | Sans Smith, Panthers' offense is much less intimidating - 09/08/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme, Keyshawn Johnson, Keary Colbert Entering their season-opening game this Sunday at Bank of America Stadium against the Altanta Falcons, the Carolina Panthers still aren't sure if their best offensive player, receiver Steve Smith, will play. Fantasy Impact: If Smith is out, which is looking more and more likely, Delhomme takes a slight hit, while Johnson and Colbert move up. | | | 1:14 pm | Smith misses practice again - 09/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable for the season opener against Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: The more practices he misses, the more likely it is that he won't play. Have your contingency plans ready. | | | Running game a real puzzler - 09/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams, Nick Goings, Eric Shelton Coaches somewhat stumped judging from exhibition results Fantasy Impact: The running game will be very volatile this season, so make sure you handcuff Foster to Williams and be ready to pick up the other backs at a moment's notice. | | | Panthers stock middle with 700 pounds - 09/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Jenkins, Maake Kemoeatu Panthers stock middle with 700 pounds Jenkins, Kemoeatu substantial obstacles for offenses Fantasy Impact: Thanks to these two man-mountains, running between the tackles will be almost impossible and ends Peppers and Rucker will usually face single coverage, resulting in more sacks. It looks to be another banner year for the Panthers defense. | | | 1:06 pm | Steve Smith 'questionable' for season opener - 09/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith missed Wednesday's practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's season opener against Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: It's going to be hard to bench this top-3 WR, but be prepared to do so. Keep a very close eye on the injury report leading up to the game. | | | Steve Smith 'questionable' for Panthers season opener - 09/06/2006
Source: Charlotte.com Impacts: Steve Smith, Keary Colbert BREAKING NEWS: Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith missed Wednesday's practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's season opener against Atlanta. Smith missed most of training camp and the entire preseason with a left hamstring injury and an ingrown toenail. But Smith's absence Wednesday was due to a different injury. Coach John Fox said Smith tweaked his other hamstring in Tuesday's practice. Fantasy Impact: Very bad news for Smith and fantasy owners of Smith, who now has two injured hamstrings. More news on this story as it develops, but expect Keary Colbert to get more playing time and looks in Smith's place. | | | Morgan says he's ready and he will play Sunday - 09/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan Enough with all the questions; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Dan Morgan wants you to know he feels great and is ready to roll in Sunday's season opener against Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: With Morgan ready to play in week 1, you have to start him knowing he will pile up tackles. | | | Three's a crowd at QB for Panthers - 09/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme, Chris Weinke The NFL's regular season hasn't started, but a trend already has emerged. Fantasy Impact: Delhomme remains the only QB worth a roster spot on the Panthers, but know that if he and Weinke were to go down, the offense would be in the hands of a TE. Not a good sign. | | | Panthers wary of Atlanta's cut blocking technique (AP) - 09/05/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Julius Peppers, Michael Vick Carolina's defense has its hands full against Atlanta simply trying to contain quarterback Michael Vick and its running game. Throw in the Falcons' tendency to cut block on offense, and the Panthers know Sunday's season opener could get dangerous. Defensive ends Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker both suffered sprained ankles last year against Atlanta when Falcons players legally tackled them below the... Fantasy Impact: The Panthers seemed to figure out how to win despite the cut blocks last year, but you have to up the risk on the defenders this week, especially since Peppers and Rucker sprained their ankles on cut blocks. | | | Dolphins sign Adams, cut Labinjo - 09/04/2006
Source: Sun-Sentinel.com Impacts: Keith Adams, Mike Labinjo The Dolphins signed linebacker Keith Adams on Monday and waived linebacker Mike Labinjo. A six-year NFL veteran, Adams was cut Saturday by Carolina. Adams spent his past four NFL seasons with Philadelphia, starting all 16 games for the Eagles in 2005. Fantasy Impact: Adams is an improvement over Labinjo, due mostly to better skills in diagnosing plays as they are happening, but either one would not have much of an impact in 2006. | | | PANTHERS ANALYSIS: Smith, Gamble likely to be returners again - 09/04/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith, Chris Gamble, Eric Shelton Random observations after the Carolina Panthers set their 53-man roster for the start of the season. Fantasy Impact: Gamble will be the main punt returner this year, so move his IDP value up slightly with the possibility of return TDs. Smith also moves up slightly, since he will return a couple times to provide a spark. The short-yardage situation is still in the air, with Shelton barely holding on to the job. Move him up slightly. | | | Panthers final roster is set - 09/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Stefan LeFors, Keith Adams, Jovon Bouknight The Carolina Panthers trimmed their roster to 53 players Saturday afternoon. Fantasy Impact: Kill the fantasy value of these players. | | | PANTHERS VS. STEELERS | DIGEST: Shelton runs for his job - 09/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Eric Shelton Running back Eric Shelton took advantage of what might have been his last chance to play in a Carolina Panthers' uniform. Fantasy Impact: He seems resigned to the fact that he will be cut. Despite a decent performance, take away all of Shelton's value. | | | Smith: Toenail injury was painful - 09/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith said the in-grown toenail that forced him to miss part of the preseason was more serious than it might sound. Fantasy Impact: Now we learn that he had surgery on his toe, and that it hurt so much that he couldn't even walk. This is not a good report from who is expected to be a top-3 WR this season. Move him down. | | | Panthers 15, Steelers 13 (AP) - 08/31/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay The Carolina Panthers proved something during a long night that featured almost no starters and plenty of not-so-good football: Their junior varsity is better than that of the Pittsburgh Steelers. John Kasay kicked his fifth field goal on the final play of the game, a 29-yarder that finished an unbeaten Carolina preseason and a winless one for Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh as the Panthers won... Fantasy Impact: The only thing we can take from this game is that Kasay can kick field goals with ease. Move Kasay up slightly, but that's it. | | | For weekend editions Sept. 2-3, or thereafter (AP) - 08/31/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Steve Smith Steve Smith has two tattoos on his arm. One is of the square-jawed Superman, the other of the force-of-nature Tasmanian Devil. Fitting for the complex star of the Carolina Panthers, who is perhaps the top receiver in the NFL, but also one of the league's most temperamental players. While Dallas' Terrell Owens is the league's most talked-about receiver, Smith enters the 2006 season as the most... Fantasy Impact: It's important for Smith to have that competitive fire after his incredible 2005. While Johnson will take away some looks he will draw defenders away, and Smith should be a top-3 WR again this year. | | | Cut looms for 2nd-rounder Eric Shelton - 08/30/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Eric Shelton Eric Shelton, a second-round draft pick 16 months ago, hasn't distinguished himself to Carolina Panthers coaches and looks almost certain to be among the team's final cuts. Fantasy Impact: Early on it was thought that he could replace Stephen Davis as the short-yardage and goal-line back, but he hasn't looked the part. Unless he survives the final cuts, eliminate his fantasy value. | | | Butler still work in progress - 08/29/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme He walked off the practice field Monday morning carrying the helmets of some of the veteran offensive linemen. This is Rashad Butler's role these days, and it's a far cry from when he was a star offensive tackle for the Miami Hurricanes. Fantasy Impact: Butler could be a starter down the line, but for now he is just a backup, so don't worry about him unless injuries occur along the line. | | | Short on reps, cuts coming - 08/29/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Stefan LeFors Like most days, the last player on the Carolina Panthers practice field Monday was undrafted rookie quarterback Brett Basanez. Fantasy Impact: The players who are cut will likely be 3rd-string and lower players who have no fantasy impact. | | | PANTHERS DIGEST: Diggs has ligament pain figured out - 08/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Na'il Diggs Carolina Panthers linebacker Na'il Diggs is fast becoming an expert on injuries to the medial collateral ligament. Fantasy Impact: At least he knows what his injury is. He could miss some regular-season time, so move him down slightly. | | | Mangum getting back - 08/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Mangum If you had to pick a member of the Carolina Panthers to sit out almost all of training camp and not miss a beat, Kris Mangum would be a pretty safe choice. Fantasy Impact: Mangum was unlikely to have any fantasy impact before this injury; now he certainly won't. | | | ANALYSIS | PAT YASINSKAS: Panthers | 10 things - 08/27/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Here are 10 things that must happen if the Carolina Panthers really are going to win the Super Bowl. | | | Panthers cut 9 players - 08/26/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo!, Charlotte Observer CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Kicker MacKenzie Hoambrecker was among nine players released Saturday by the Carolina ... Fantasy Impact: None of the 9 players were of any fantasy relevance. | | | Delhomme's deal restructured - 08/26/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme The Panthers freed up $2.25 million by restructuring the contract of quarterback Jake Delhomme, according to league sources. Fantasy Impact: Just freeing up additional cap space, no real fantasy impact. | | | Diggs' injury might secure roster spot for Adams - 08/26/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keith Adams, Na'il Diggs One play Thursday night might have moved Carolina Panthers linebacker Keith Adams off that will-he-make-the-team bubble and into the starting lineup, at least temporarily. Fantasy Impact: Adams was on the outside looking in before the injury. Now he should make the roster, but his fantasy impact will be minimal while reducing the IDP value of Diggs. | | | 4:24 pm | Panthers' Diggs day-to-day after MRI - 08/25/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Na'il Diggs Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Na'il Diggs sprained his right knee against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night. Fantasy Impact: Fortunately he is only day-to-day. Move him back a little, but not to where he was. | | | Experts Poll: Defenses (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/25/2006
Source: Yahoo! The Jacksonville Jaguars jumped over the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to move into the top five in the latest experts poll. Fantasy Impact: Just a few fantasy experts' rankings of defenses. | | | PANTHERS VS. DOLPHINS | DIGEST: Smith out of action again as Panthers play it safe - 08/25/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith If receiver Steve Smith is going to play in the preseason, it will have to be next Thursday at Pittsburgh. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully the long layoff doesn't affect his regular-season status, but even a slight drop wouldn't affect his status as a top fantasy WR. | | | PANTHERS NOTEBOOK: Dolphins rattle QB Delhomme - 08/25/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme had his shakiest showing of the preseason in the Panthers' 19-10 win over the Dolphins on Thursday night at Bank of America Stadium. Fantasy Impact: In a game where the starters play the longest, this is a bad sign for Delhomme. Hopefully this is mostly due to not having All-Pro WR Steve Smith on the field, but move him down slightly. | | | Panthers 19, Dolphins 10 (AP) - 08/24/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, Daunte Culpepper DeAngelo Williams may not start at running back as a rookie, but he likely secured the Carolina Panthers' kickoff return job Thursday night. Williams returned a kick 98 yards for a touchdown in Carolina's 19-10 win over the Miami Dolphins. Williams, the 27th pick in the draft, had been pressing the Panthers' coaching staff for a chance to return kicks as he plays behind starting running back... Fantasy Impact: Williams gains some fantasy value as the starting kick returner, but his main value is still as the handcuff to DeShaun Foster. The first-team offense struggled mightily in its longest playing time of the preseason, especially Delhomme (6-15), but in its defense was without Steve Smith. Move them down a little. The defense finally relented and allowed a TD, but it wasn't until the 3rd quarter. Unfortunately, it was with the incomparable Joey Harrington at the helm, so that's not good. Overall though, the defense continued to perform well, so you should look to them on draft day. | | | Panthers' Diggs suffers knee injury (AP) - 08/24/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Na'il Diggs, Keith Adams Carolina Panthers starting outside linebacker Na'il Diggs suffered a right knee injury in the first quarter of Thursday's game against Miami and was not expected to return. Diggs collapsed to the field while playing on special teams during a punt. He stayed on the ground for several minutes before limping off the field with the help of medical personnel. Fantasy Impact: This injury affects his chances of starting, so move him down your IDP cheat sheets. Adams now has the inside track on the starting OLB job. | | | PFW: Last look at NFC South training camps - 08/24/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick, Dan Morgan Pro Football Weekly takes one last look at each NFC South team's training camp. Fantasy Impact: Vick will be the most watched Falcon yet again, and we'll have to see how new WR Lelie fits into the offense. If the Panthers DTs can stay healthy and the LBs can solidify, they will be an incredible defense. | | | Panthers set countdown - 08/24/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The big decisions, for the most part, have been made for weeks. The little ones, however, could come down to tonight.
Fantasy Impact: The cuts will likely be fringe players and backups who don't have any fantasy impact. | | | Dolphins at Panthers | What to watch - 08/24/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Shaun Williams, Colin Branch Hey, we know the Carolina Panthers' matchup with Miami tonight is an exhibition, but it is the most significant of an insignificant bunch, because the starters are expected to play a preseason high of three quarters. Fantasy Impact: With the starters expected to play 3 quarters, this is the best time to get an idea of how both sides of the Panthers are coming together. | | | Dolphins at Panthers | Rosters - 08/24/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer These measures will be in place: An NFL mandated policy means pat-downs for everyone entering the stadium. | | | Preview: Carolina's "D" will dominate in '06 - 08/24/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Kris Jenkins During the offseason the unit faced some transitions, including a loss of a key linebacker. However, thanks to the re-addition of one tremendous tackle, the Carolina defense is ready to try and match its past successes. Fantasy Impact: While there are some concerns at LB, overall there is no reason to expect anything less than dominance from the Carolina defense. They enter the season as a top-3 fantasy defense. | | | Tom Sorensen: A good Panthers fight song? - 08/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Carolina Panthers have had great players, good seasons, full houses, empty seats, a Super Bowl trip and a cheerleader scuffle. What they've never had is a good fight song. | | | Delhomme unpacks: `It's good to be back' - 08/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme Quarterback Jake Delhomme and his Carolina Panthers' teammates would still have been working out in steamy Spartanburg on Tuesday morning, but training camp had gone so well that coach John Fox cancelled the final two days and let his team return to Charlotte early. Fantasy Impact: This is a good sign, because training camp went extremely well, and they didn't even need the last 2 days of practice. Move the Panthers up. | | | Rookie Marshall proving - 08/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Richard Marshall At least 10 minutes after most of his Carolina Panthers teammates had gone to the locker room after practice Tuesday, rookie cornerback Richard Marshall was on the field getting tips from defensive backs coach Rod Perry. Fantasy Impact: Marshall is fast improving, and should help strengthen an already dominant defense. Don't look to him in IDP leagues though. | | | Marshall uses Keyshawn's advice to move up depth chart (AP) - 08/22/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Richard Marshall The day he was drafted by the Carolina Panthers, Richard Marshall brashly, boldly predicted he'd battle for a starting cornerback job. Now, after his first training camp, Marshall doesn't appear ready to unseat Ken Lucas or Chris Gamble, but he is working his way up the depth chart -- thanks in part to veteran receiver Keyshawn Johnson. Fantasy Impact: He may not be a starter any time soon, but Marshall should be the nickel corner in week 1. Move him up a bit, but he shouldn't be anywhere near an IDP roster yet. | | | Page 2: Madden player rankings - 08/22/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Donovan McNabb, Tiki Barber, Clinton Portis, Jake Delhomme, Warrick Dunn Does your guy make Madden's Top 10? | | | Panthers have some - 08/22/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Jenkins They came with questions and left with answers and, in some cases, more questions. | | | 1:01 pm | Smith sits out Panthers' final camp practice - 08/21/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith sat out the final practice of training camp Monday as he continues to recover from a strained left hamstring. Fantasy Impact: It's probably best for him to sit, as the final practice isn't usually that important and they don't want him to needlessly aggravate it. As long as he gets his preseason action, he should be fine. | | | Panthers big on whatever ‘it’ is - 08/21/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Gaines THE DE FACTO motto of the Carolina Panthers is what it is. No, really, that’s the motto: “It Is What It Is.” | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 08/21/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith, Allen Rossum, David Patten, Scott Shanle, Brodrick Bunkley Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Steve McNair's even-keeled demeanor has been a breath of fresh air for the Ravens. Fantasy Impact: Smith not returning punts reduces his fantasy value slightly, though he is still a top-3 WR. Rossum's already minimal fantasy value is in danger as he battles for the returner job. While Patten is now likely to make the team, he is still no more than 4th on the depth chart and is not worthy of a roster spot. The Cowboys could use o-line depth behind their starters, and trading an excess LB is a good way to get it. It looks like Bunkley's holdout hasn't affected his abilities, and he should be a solid player on the Eagles. | | | Rookie hazing part of final day of Panthers' camp - 08/21/2006
Source: ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- John Fox was happy, the veterans were happy, and the rookies were taped to the goal ... Fantasy Impact: Nothing wrong with a little hazing, as long as it doesn't get out of hand. | | | Things get a little rough for Delhomme - 08/20/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme Jake Delhomme's gritty, physically punishing first half Saturday night likely bore more resemblance to the regular season than Carolina Panthers officials preferred. Fantasy Impact: Delhomme took a few more hits that his owners would like, but remember that they were taking on a superb defense. Either way, up the risk on him slightly. | | | IN MY OPINION: Keyshawn, Smith will get along just fine - 08/20/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith, Keyshawn Johnson I myself have seen evidence of the simmering feud between Steve Smith and Keyshawn Johnson. | | | By PAT YASINSKAS - 08/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith As expected, Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith won't play in tonight's preseason game against Jacksonville. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully this is only as a precaution, which it probably is since he was practicing. However, with him having not seen game situations with Keyshawn, you have to up the risk slightly on this top WR. | | | IN MY OPINION: Expect improvement from Panthers rookie - 08/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams Noting the sports world: Starting fullback Brad Hoover told me that rookie running back DeAngelo Williams tried to cut back against the grain too often in his first preseason game. "That's really hard to do at this level," Hoover said, "because everyone is so fast. You're usually better off taking what the defense gives you." Fantasy Impact: Remember that Williams is just a rookie, and will be primarily a backup this year, so you can't expect him to do much unless Foster goes down. | | | PANTHERS AT JAGS, 7:30 P.M. WCCB-TV, CH. 18: Panthers' Brown boasts - 08/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Julius Peppers They have two defensive ends who have been to the Pro Bowl and a defensive tackle who is a two-time All Pro. So who is leading the Carolina Panthers in sacks this preseason? | | | Panthers 17, Jaguars 10 (AP) - 08/19/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Mike Rucker, David Garrard David Garrard's worst game came at an inopportune time. It also ended whatever outside shot he had at supplanting starter Byron Leftwich. Jacksonville's backup quarterback mostly struggled with -- and against -- the starters Saturday night, fumbling three times, throwing an interception and getting sacked once in a 17-10 preseason loss to the Carolina Panthers. Fantasy Impact: Again the team played without Smith on offense, and again they performed admirably against a good defense. The defense performed at about their expected level, which is to say, dominant. Lower the risk on both sides, more on the defense. | | | Jags backup QB gets chance to shine against Panthers (AP) - 08/18/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: David Garrard David Garrard was impressive in Jacksonville's preseason opener at Miami, throwing two long touchdown passes in the second half and leading the Jaguars to a come-from-behind victory. But the touchdowns came against fellow backups. Garrard will get a much tougher test Saturday night against the Carolina Panthers, whose first-team defense held Buffalo without a first down in four series last week. | | | Minter deals with grief on the field (AP) - 08/18/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Mike Minter The football field has always been Mike Minter's favorite place. After the unexpected death of his mother, it's become a place to heal. "Football has always been great medicine in my life," the Carolina Panthers safety said Thursday. "I'm trying to get back into thinking about some football, and that always helps." Minter, beginning his 10th season with the Panthers, rejoined the team this week... Fantasy Impact: Playing for his deceased mom could lead to a big season for Minter, who will want to put his best foot forward. While he is no more than an IDP backup, he should help this defense perform even better. | | | Smith likes new-look Panthers offense (AP) - 08/18/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Steve Smith watched the Carolina Panthers' receiving corps dominate Buffalo last week, and it brought a smile to his face. "It makes me excited to think when I get back, things can continue," said Smith, who missed the preseason opener with a strained hamstring. "Guys are here to make plays," he said. Fantasy Impact: If Smith is excited, you have to be excited as well. Lower the risk on the Panthers, who continue to be Super Bowl favorites. | | | Fox sticking to the plan for playing time - 08/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer TODAY'S SCHEDULE: The Panthers will practice at 9:45 a.m. There is no afternoon practice, because the team will head to Charlotte to prepare for Saturday's trip to Jacksonville for the exhibition with the Jaguars. | | | IN MY OPINION / SCOTT FOWLER: Air horn always a rude awakening - 08/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer When you're an NFL veteran, training camp is a necessary evil. It is an oil change. A trip to the dentist. A second helping of broccoli. It is good for you, but it's not much fun. | | | Smith weary of same question - 08/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith He'd been quiet since injuring his hamstring on the first day of training camp, yet when Steve Smith finally spoke Thursday afternoon, he found himself answering the same old question.
Fantasy Impact: As long as Smith is right and the relationship with Johnson is a non-story, you can lower the risk on both. | | | Panthers' first-string offense hopes to keep rolling - 08/18/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Steve Smith Although the Carolina Panthers' starting offense didn't have its top player, receiver Steve Smith, in last weekend's preseason opener, the unit appeared as dominant as ever. Fantasy Impact: If they can impress without one of the top WRs in football, imagine what they can do with him on the field. Draft Panthers offensive players with confidence, except maybe the injury-prone Foster. | | | Confidence growing in Panthers defense - 08/17/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Julius Peppers Julius Peppers didn't hesitate when asked if he's part of the best defense in the NFL. Fantasy Impact: One of the best defenses in the NFL is gaining confidence. Bad for opposing offenses, great for fantasy owners. | | | Minter returns to Panthers after mother's death - 08/17/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Mike Minter Mike Minter practiced with the Carolina Panthers Wednesday afternoon, less than a week after the death of his mother. Fantasy Impact: Condolences to the Minter family for their loss. Maybe Minter plays with a chip on his shoulder this year. | | | Richardson catches up with team's progress - 08/17/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer TODAY'S SCHEDULE: Practices are at 10:30 a.m. on Snyder Field at Wofford and at 7 p.m. on the main practice fields. | | | Haynes sets out - 08/17/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Gaines If you want the scouting report on Carolina Panthers running back Alex Haynes, you have to turn to tight end Michael Gaines. Fantasy Impact: Interestingly, he got on the field ahead of Shelton. If he becomes the power back, he could be a TD-only option. | | | Minter deals with grief on the field - 08/17/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Mike Minter SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- The football field has always been Mike Minter's favorite place. After the unexpected ... | | | 11:14 am | Richardson attends Panther practice - 08/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer SPARTANBURG -- Owner Jerry Richardson made his first appearance of the preseason at a Carolina Panthers training camp practice. | | | Camp roundup | Fox, Rucker return - 08/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Mike Rucker TODAY'S SCHEDULE: 9:10 a.m. and 3:10 p.m. WEATHER: Upper 80s with scattered thunderstorms. Fantasy Impact: Rucker was not injured, just attending the funeral of Mike Minter's mother. No changes here. | | | Smith sharp in return - 08/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith There was no rust showing on Steve Smith when he returned to practice Tuesday morning. Fantasy Impact: With Smith now running at full speed and showing no signs of rust, you can move him back to where he was. | | | IN MY OPINION / TOM SORENSEN: Song conjures memories -- bad ones - 08/16/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer There's a song in my head. The song is trespassing. You've heard of home invasion. This is brain invasion. The song barged in Saturday night and, like a tattoo, a wart or a bunion, will not go away. Fantasy Impact: The last time they played Stand and Cheer, the Panthers lost 12 games. Hope that history doesn't repeat itself. | | | Backfield rotation a sign Shelton's not in plans? - 08/14/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Eric Shelton, DeAngelo Williams The Carolina Panthers invested high draft picks on running backs the past two years. Those two players' prospects appear headed in opposite directions after Saturday's exhibition opener against Buffalo.
Fantasy Impact: Move Williams up a bit, while reducing Shelton's projections. | | | IN MY OPINION: Donnalley a good guy who made awful error - 08/14/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer What a high school coach can do: yell, joke, break down, build up, push (not shove), prod, lead, scream and inspire.
| | | Early returns promising for Carolina defenders - 08/13/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer impressive beginning The Carolina Panthers defense, expected to be one of the best in the NFL again this season, got off to a smashing start in Saturday night's exhibition opener at home against Buffalo. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers D should be one of the first off the boards on draft day, and their performance against the Bills did nothing to dispel that notion. | | | Jenkins returns to lineup - 08/13/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Jenkins Elevator PANTHERS RECEIVERS Keyshawn Johnson, Keary Colbert, Drew Carter -- whoever quarterback Jake Delhomme aimed at made the catch. Fantasy Impact: With Jenkins back, the Panthers defense gets that much better with his ability to tie up blockers, stuff the run, and rush the QB. | | | IN MY OPINION: Offense was pretty, but defense still gritty - 08/13/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Carolina Panthers only heightened their great expectations Saturday night against Buffalo. | | | Panthers 14, Bills 13 (AP) - 08/13/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson, Jake Delhomme It didn't take Keyshawn Johnson long to show the Carolina Panthers are no longer a one-dimensional passing team centering around Steve Smith. Johnson, in his first game with Carolina, caught an 18-yard pass from Jake Delhomme on the first play from scrimmage, the beginning of a game-opening touchdown drive on the way to a 14-13 win over the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night. Fantasy Impact: Good for Key and Delhomme to get on the same page right off the bat. Even though Smith was out, you can rest easier when drafting both, and may be able to bump Johnson up a bit. | | | PANTHERS AT BILLS, 7 p.m., Ch. 18: Bills at Panthers: Five Things To Watch - 08/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Starter Mike Minter will not be back with the team after the unexpected death of his mother. Shaun Williams is likely to start along with Colin Branch. | | | IN MY OPINION: Carter will try to seize the play - 08/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Drew Carter The Carolina Panthers won't be able to keep Drew Carter off the field this season. | | | Smith not expected to play tonight - 08/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith is not expected to play in tonight's opener against Buffalo, scheduled for 7:30 at Bank of America Stadium. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully missing preseason action will not affect Smith too much. Since he is a veteran, it shouldn't, but be wary nonetheless. | | | BILLS AT PANTHERS, 7 P.M., Ch. 18: A night of firsts - 08/12/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams Of all the firsts for the Carolina Panthers tonight, the one involving their first-round draft pick might be the most interesting. | | | Basanez fighting for a job with a heavy heart (AP) - 08/10/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN As a rookie fighting for the No. 3 quarterback job with the Carolina Panthers, wide-eyed Brett Basanez can't wait to get to the practice field each day. But the former Northwestern star also has another reason to hit the field -- it helps him put the sudden death of his college coach out of his mind. Basanez was in Charlotte for offseason workouts in late June when he got the news that Randy Walker... | | | 11:14 am | Panther mom dies of sudden illness - 08/10/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN Impacts: Mike Minter The mother of Carolina Panthers safety Mike Minter died Thursday morning in Oklahoma, coach John Fox said. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers now lose Minter indefinitely. If he isn't back by the start of the season, the defense's value will drop without his talent and experience. | | | Kicking gig sweet, but short - 08/10/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer MacKenzie Hoambrecker lost his real job. He's still working at his dream job, but soon he likely will relinquish that one as well. | | | Wharton's absence gives Wahle look at tackle - 08/10/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer , Colin BranchTODAY'S SCHEDULE: 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. WEATHER: The high is expected to be 90 degrees with a 60-percent chance of afternoon or evening thunderstorms. Fantasy Impact: Interesting that Smith is not listed at punt returner. If he doesn't get any chances there, his fantasy impact will be slightly reduced, though he will still be a top-3 WR. | | | Ex-Panther Donnalley replaced as high school coach - 08/09/2006
Source: ESPN Former Carolina Panther Kevin Donnalley, implicated in a steroid probe that led to federal charges against a South Carolina doctor, has been replaced as football coach at Charlotte Christian School. | | | Panthers could have all-rookie kickoff return team - 08/09/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, Richard Marshall The Carolina Panthers could have two rookies returning kickoffs this season, with both first-round pick DeAngelo Williams and second-rounder Richard Marshall practicing on it during training camp. | | | Camp roundup | Kemoeatu catching praise - 08/08/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson TODAY'S SCHEDULE: Practices at 9:10 a.m. and 3:10 p.m., on the practice fields behind Wofford's football stadium. Fantasy Impact: The new players continue to mesh well on both sides of the ball, lowering the risk of the Panthers every day. | | | Happy in his new digs - 08/08/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Na'il Diggs says he's happy to trade Green Bay's frigid winters for the sweltering heat that is the trademark of Carolina Panthers' training camp. Fantasy Impact: Diggs is the front-runner for the starting OLB spot right now, and though you can move him up as a result, he is unlikely to be an IDP player. | | | 10:31 am | Kasay kicks his 1st field goals - 08/08/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay Fantasy Impact: Good to see him back on the field and kicking, as he will be a fantasy option this year. | | | Frontal pressure makes Panthers' secondary scary - 08/07/2006
Source: RealFootball365 So rather than always thinking of the likes of Peppers and Jenkins, give some thought to Lucas, Gamble and co. Fantasy Impact: The combination of a dominant front-seven with a playmaking secondary will equal a top fantasy defense this season. Draft the Panthers' D with confidence. | | | IN MY OPINION : Williams tries to give
Panthers a safety valve - 08/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Shaun Williams The term ""injury-prone"" is relative. If you or I tried to play in the NFL, one good blindside collision would be enough to put us in the hospital for a month. NFL players crash into each other constantly and, amazingly enough, get up and do it again 30 seconds later. | | | Panthers have a big-body surplus - 08/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Watch the Carolina Panthers defensive tackles in training camp and chances are good you'll see six, seven or maybe eight guys who will play this season. Fantasy Impact: With all the DTs they have, the Panthers will be tough to run on this year, and the DEs will see lots of single-coverage. | | | 11:30 am | Kasay returns to Panthers practice - 08/07/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay Carolina Panthers kicker John Kasay returned to practice today, as his leg injury continues to heal. Kasay, though, did not kick in the morning practice, and coach John Fox was non-commital when asked if Kasay would kick in Saturday's exhibition opener with Buffalo. Fantasy Impact: Kasay is a draftable kicker, and with him returning to health, the risk is down. | | | Panthers don't intend to bring back Fields (AP) - 08/07/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Former Pro Bowl linebacker Mark Fields wants to play in the NFL again after missing two of the last three seasons with Hodgkin's disease, but the Carolina Panthers aren't interested in bringing him back. "I know he was planning on working out and getting ready to play," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said of Fields. Fantasy Impact: Fields could have competed for a starting job, but most likely would have been a backup and mentor for Davis. | | | Panthers' Smith inching closer to return (AP) - 08/07/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina All-Pro receiver Steve Smith appeared closer to returning from a hamstring injury Monday, going through agility drills and catching balls on the side during the Panthers' afternoon workout. Smith, who strained his left hamstring while running a long route on the first day of camp July 29, rode a stationary bike in the morning workout. Fantasy Impact: Hamstring injuries are never good for speed receivers like Smith. Move him closer to his original position, but be careful with him. | | | IN MY OPINION / TOM SORENSEN: Tom Sorensen | Meet Justin McCullum - 08/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Last week in Spartanburg, a receiver makes a nice over-the-shoulder catch. He wears No. 12. I have to check the roster to see who No. 12 is. | | | Shelton is impressive at scrimmage - 08/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Eric Shelton TODAY'S SCHEDULE: The players were allowed to spend Saturday night at home and are due back in Spartanburg today at 5:30 p.m. Fantasy Impact: The better Shelton performs, the bigger chance he has of getting a goal-line job. Move him up slightly. | | | A study in patience - 08/06/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer As he stood in the Wofford College cafeteria Friday afternoon, Efrem Hill quoted an ancient philosopher. | | | Taking the afternoon off - 08/05/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer TODAY'S SCHEDULE: The Panthers will be back in Charlotte for Fan Fest, a morning of events culminating in a scrimmage at Bank of America Stadium at 11 a.m. | | | What to Watch | Fan Fest today at BofA Stadium - 08/05/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Want to take an early peek at the new Carolina Panthers? | | | IN MY OPINION: Davis may be key
to Carolina defense - 08/04/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Thomas Davis If you're a Panthers fan, you understand there's a potentially great defense brewing in the Carolina heat. | | | Life's good for Gaines - 08/04/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Gaines There's a charismatic stage presence about Michael Gaines, the Carolina Panthers tight end who entertains teammates and whoever else will listen with impersonations and gospel music. Fantasy Impact: Gaines has good physical tools, so with his starting spot comes higher projections. However, he is still not a draftable TE. | | | IN MY OPINION / SCOTT FOWLER: Henning and his offense are straightforward - 08/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Ask Dan Henning a simple question, get a complicated answer. He sees options, angles and variables. | | | Hartwig working his way back into shape - 08/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Mohawk is gone, but Justin Hartwig is back. The red Mohawk haircut that was a big story during June workouts in Charlotte has been shaved. It's hard to tell how much hair Hartwig has these days because his head was covered by a floppy hat as he spoke to the media. Fantasy Impact: Hartwig will be replacing Jeff Mitchell on the line, and its good to see him healthy and practicing. | | | Full contact, and it feels so good - 08/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer TODAY'S PRACTICES: 10:30 a.m. at Snyder Field and 3:10 p.m. on practice fields. | | | Pasquarelli: Panthers' middle men strength of defense - 08/03/2006
Source: ESPN The Panthers are strong overall defensively, but their strength principally lies in the middle, Len Pasquarelli writes. Fantasy Impact: It's scary that an already dominant defense is getting even better. Even in Jenkins cannot return at 100%, draft this defense with confidence. | | | 12:01 pm | Panther's Mangum could be sidelined for weeks - 08/03/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Mangum Panthers tight end Kris Mangum said Thursday he's dealing with a case of Plantar Fascitis, which could keep him out of practice for several weeks. Fantasy Impact: Mangum's already minimal fantasy value is lost due to this injury. | | | Lucas wants to be the best in the NFL (AP) - 08/03/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Ken Lucas Ken Lucas doesn't mess around when setting goals. Upset with his Pro Bowl snub and the loss to his former team in last season's NFC championship game, the Carolina Panthers cornerback set the bar high this season: He's intent on becoming the best defensive player in the NFL. The Panthers signed Lucas to a six-year, $36.5 million free-agent deal before last season in hopes he would become the... Fantasy Impact: Lucas had 6 INTs each of the past 2 seasons, and with the talent around him, he is poised for another good season. His drive makes him that much better. | | | Panthers observations (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/03/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Kris Jenkins, Keyshawn Johnson, Steve Smith, Jake Delhomme SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Another injury-marred season from defensive tackle Kris Jenkins would hurt his chances of remaining a Panther. Fantasy Impact: If Jenkins is truly fighting for his roster spot beyond this season, that should give him motivation to perform well, improving this already stellar defense. As for Johnson, he may not be more than a no.3 WR in fantasy, but his presence will really help Delhomme and Smith, and he is already showing it. | | | It's DeShaun's show (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/03/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams SPARTANBURG, S.C. – DeShaun Foster is starring as Carolina's featured back, but can he stay healthy in the spotlight? Fantasy Impact: Interesting note that Williams is insurance for Foster. That means he should be the starter this season, which only helps his value. | | | Pasquarelli: Observations from Panthers camp - 08/03/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith, Keyshawn Johnson, Jake Delhomme, Thomas Davis, DeShaun Foster The Steve Smith-Keyshawn Johnson coupling is interesting, made even more so because of Jake Delhomme's tendency to lock in on one WR. Fantasy Impact: Davis is starting to get comfortable at OLB, and could be a surprise performer. It looks like Foster has a hold on the starting job thanks to a few struggles by Williams. | | | Heat cuts afternoon session short - 08/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson TODAY'S SCHEDULE: 9:10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Wofford. Fantasy Impact: Johnson seems to be adjusting well to Carolina's offense. Move him up a little. | | | IN MY OPINION / LANGSTON WERTZ JR.: Need some inspiration? Look up to the Moon - 08/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer I remember when Doug Williams was most valuable player of the Super Bowl in 1988. I hated the Redskins, but I loved how Williams dispelled the notion -- once and for all -- that a black man couldn't play quarterback in the NFL. | | | Colbert separating
himself from crowd - 08/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keary Colbert Superlatives are swirling through Carolina Panthers training camp about the early practice performances of wide receiver Keary Colbert. Fantasy Impact: Unfortunately, he burned a lot of fantasy owners with his terrible 05 season, and is now no.3 on the depth chart. Move him up a little, but he is nowhere close to starter material. | | | 11:15 am | Panthers begin full-contact drills - 08/02/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams, Steve Smith, Kris Jenkins, Julius Peppers, Chris Weinke The Carolina Panthers had their first live, full contact drills of training camp Wednesday morning. | | | Long-term Smith injury would be cataclysmic for Carolina - 08/01/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Steve Smith And as far as the Panthers go, they couldn't possibly be luckier in this situation. Fantasy Impact: No, there is not long-term injury to Smith like in 2004. He will be back soon, and as long as the team lets him recover fully from the hammy, he will be one of the first WRs off the board. | | | IN MY OPINION / TOM SORENSEN: Top pick one day,
pack mule the next - 08/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams DeAngelo Williams looks at the chair like it's a cool drink. He is dragging from the humidity and practices and meetings and heavy lifting. | | | This time, Shelton looks to get off on right foot - 08/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Eric Shelton When he stepped on the practice field at Wofford a year ago, Eric Shelton might as well have been in a foreign country. Fantasy Impact: If Shelton can continue to improve, he will be an intriguing TD-only option. However, that could be tough to get. | | | Training camp notes | Kasay coming along - 08/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay TODAY'S PRACTICES: 10:30 a.m. at Wofford's stadium, Snyder Field, and 3:10 p.m. on practice fields. Fantasy Impact: Good to see Kasay getting back to 100%, so you can grab him without worry. | | | 11:32 a.m. | Smith, Kasay ease back into action - 08/01/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay, Steve Smith Two injured Carolina Panthers are getting closer to getting back to action. Fantasy Impact: Important for the veteran Kasay to get back to kicking. Very important for Smith to come back from his hammy. Move them back to where they were in your rankings. | | | Keown: Camp counselor - 08/01/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Why does Tim Keown love NFL training camp? Because nowhere else in the world is something so unimportant taken so seriously. | | | Keary Colbert: (Ankle) Showing Great Speed - 08/01/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Keary Colbert Update: Carolina coach John Fox has been impressed with Colbert, who had offseason surgery on his ankle, in training camp. Fantasy Impact: Colbert's fantasy value crashed after his 2005 season, and even with his better ankle, it will be hard for him to regain it. | | | Big Kemoeatu sweating off the pounds at Panthers camp - 08/01/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Maake Kemoeatu SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Maake Kemoeatu lost about 10 pounds in the first four days of training camp with ... Fantasy Impact: While nice to see him keeping his weight in line, he is being counted on to be a run-stopper, so the more the better. Not to worry though, as the defense will still be good. | | | Shockey, Patten, Kinney sidelined, Brady back (AP) - 08/01/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Jeremy Shockey, Michael Vick, Steve Smith, David Patten, DeAngelo Hall Jeremy Shockey expects rough treatment from opponents. He isn't looking for it from teammates, particularly in training camp. The New York Giants tight end missed Tuesday's practice in Albany, N.Y., with post-concussion headaches. The three-time Pro Bowler suffered the mild concussion the previous night when he took a shot from safety Will Demps. Fantasy Impact: Looks like Smith is on his way back to full strength. Lower the risk on him. Hall's injury, while minor, is a little concerning since he is the key to the pass defense. | | | Old Colt inspires Panthers - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Carolina Panthers began their pursuit of an NFL championship with a message about what it really means to be a man. | | | Morgan has new friend at camp - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Dan Morgan For the first time in his NFL career, Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Dan Morgan doesn't have a training camp roommate. | | | Smith's injury gives Carter, Colbert chance to shine - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith, Drew Carter, Keary Colbert Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith is notoriously intense, so Drew Carter proceeded with caution Sunday when asking his All-Pro teammate about his injured hamstring. Fantasy Impact: Neither Carter nor Colbert will get many looks unless a player goes down. | | | 11:28 am | Kris Jenkins returns to practice - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Kris Jenkins Defensive tackle Kris Jenkins returned to practice Monday morning as the Carolina Panthers entered their third day of training camp workouts. Fantasy Impact: While the Panthers showed last year they can perform without their star DT, his return to health will make them even better. | | | 4:12 pm | Kasay confident he'll be kicking soon - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: John Kasay Carolina Panthers kicker John Kasay spent his third straight day Monday riding the stationary bike and doing conditioning drills instead of booting the ball at training camp. But Kasay, suffering muscle tightness his kicking leg, is confident he'll be kicking by the end of the week. Fantasy Impact: Be a bit more careful with Kasay, but as long as it doesn't bother him during the season you shouldn't have to move him down. | | | Owens, Johnson, Culpepper debut with new teams; Roethlisberger, Edwards return (AP) - 07/30/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Yahoo! Impacts: Terrell Owens, Keyshawn Johnson, Daunte Culpepper, Ben Roethlisberger, Braylon Edwards Terrell Owens, Keyshawn Johnson and Daunte Culpepper made their training camp debuts with their new teams Saturday, while Ben Roethlisberger and Braylon Edwards were back on the field after recovering from injuries. And Reggie Bush was expected to be in camp Sunday. In Owens' first camp with the Dallas Cowboys, he started out by being fashionably late as the last one out of the locker room... | | | Early Cats get the buzz - 07/30/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Carolina Panthers showed up early for their own party Saturday morning. | | | Exciting 1st day kicks off camp - 07/30/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Receiver Steve Smith had a short stint in the afternoon session, leaving practice with what general manager Marty Hurney said was likely a strained left hamstring that is not believed to be serious. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully he returns quickly, but more importantly, if the hammy continues to bother him, he will lose a lot of effectiveness. | | | Panthers fans buy nearly all home tickets - 07/30/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Carolina Panthers fans, many buzzing over a team that some predict will play in the Super Bowl, bought nearly all the remaining seats for this year's home games when tickets went on sale to the public Saturday. Though tickets were on sale exclusively through Ticketmaster, Roy Auten, a security guard at the Bank of America Stadium, said he turned away about 200 fans looking to score seats from the Panthers den during the morning. Fantasy Impact: Not a big article for the players themselves, but the support they will receive should create a huge home-field advantage. | | | Panthers Smith sits out with strained hamstring (AP) - 07/30/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith missed practice Sunday, a day after he strained his left hamstring while running a route at training camp. Coach John Fox said Smith, who missed the final week of coaching sessions in June with tightness in the same hamstring, is listed as day-to-day. "He was nursing it at the end of summer school, so we have to put him on the shelf, work the rehab, and we'll... Fantasy Impact: While its bad to see him sitting out, thankfully he is only day-to-day. | | | Fox: Doctor's report on Smith encouraging - 07/30/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith 11:03 a.m. Panthers coach John Fox isn't predicting when injured wide receiver Steve Smith will return to practices, but is encouraged by the doctors' report. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully he returns soon, but the report is certainly a welcome sign. | | | Training Camp Depth Chart - 07/29/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The unofficial two-deep Carolina Panthers depth chart entering training camp. | | | CAROLINA PANTHERS TRAINING CAMP: Fun and games, for now - 07/29/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer They came carrying television sets, laptop computers, portable fans, wall-to-wall carpeting, a hyperbolic chamber and massive expectations. | | | Smith, Lucas declare truce - 07/29/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Ken Lucas, Steve Smith Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith and cornerback Ken Lucas have declared a truce, reporting to training camp Friday with a mutual agreement to avoid practice field disputes. Fantasy Impact: These two are ultra-competitive, but if they can remember their truce and focus on good play, they should improve and become even more dangerous. | | | Panthers receiver Smith hurts hammy - 07/29/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Steve Smith Carolina Panthers All-Pro receiver Steve Smith was carted off the field Saturday with a hamstring injury on the opening day of training camp. Fantasy Impact: Bad sign for the Panthers and fantasy owners, with a top WR going down with a hamstring injury. He should be back, but be careful. | | | Johnson warns Panthers not to believe the hype - 07/29/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson Keyshawn Johnson knows firsthand how dangerous lofty preseason expectations can be, and he was quick to warn his new Carolina Panthers teammates all about them as they opened training camp Saturday. "If you get caught worrying about it, you aren't going anywhere," the veteran receiver said of the numerous publications and pundits that have predicted a Super Bowl win for Carolina. Fantasy Impact: Good to see Johnson being a veteran presence, though that doesn't do much to boost his marginal fantasy value. | | | CAROLINA PANTHERS: Questions abound as camp begins - 07/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer If they really are going to Miami, as so many predict, the Carolina Panthers have to first get through Spartanburg. | | | Hype follows Cats to camp - 07/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer As the Carolina Panthers report to training camp today in Spartanburg, perhaps the team should change its uniform colors to red and white -- a target. Fantasy Impact: Hype leads to overvalue, which leads to reaching for players, which leads to not getting full worth. Be careful. | | | A gambler's viewpoint of the upcoming season - 07/28/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 It's that time of year folks. No, I'm not talking about training camp, which is already getting into full swing. I'm talking NFL gambling. | | | IN MY OPINION: Minter is ready to hit something - 07/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Mike Minter If you are on I-85 today between Kannapolis and Spartanburg, and you see a man driving a white BMW 750 and wearing a Carolina Panthers football helmet, it probably will be Mike Minter. Fantasy Impact: Good to see his enthusiasm. However, Minter's lack of big plays means he is not an IDP starter. | | | Keyshawn says he can defer to Steve Smith - 07/28/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Keyshawn Johnson, Steve Smith Don't expect a problem this season when the Carolina Panthers team up one of the NFL's best pass catchers with one of the NFL's biggest egos on their flank. Keyshawn Johnson says he'll have no problem sharing this season. Fantasy Impact: We'll see if he maintains that stance, but if he does, the better chemistry will really help the team. | | | Panthers coach anxious to see what Williams can do - 07/28/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: DeAngelo Williams SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Now that DeAngelo Williams is a member of the Carolina Panthers , coach John Fox ... | | | Offseason report cards (SI.com) - 07/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Yahoo!, Yahoo! Since training camps are opening, it makes sense that we make a final evaluation of what has transpired around... | | | 6:19 pm | Panthers sign Salley; Williams remains unsigned - 07/27/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo! Impacts: DeAngelo Williams The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with fourth-round draft pick Nate Salley. Fantasy Impact: While Salley could challenge for a spot opposite Minter, he will most likely be a backup this season. | | | Panthers sign top draft pick Williams - 07/27/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: DeAngelo Williams The Carolina Panthers won't have any rookie holdouts this training camp. Fantasy Impact: Important for Williams to get in, since he could challenge for a starting spot. Bump him up slightly on your sheets since he is getting a full training camp. | | | 2:56 pm | Panthers 2nd-round pick agrees to contract - 07/26/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Yahoo!, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Richard Marshall 2:56 p.m. Second-round pick Richard Marshall has agreed to contract terms with the Carolina Panthers. Fantasy Impact: Marshall should replace Ricky Manning at CB and provide help in the nickel. He is talented enough to push Lucas and Gamble, and should make this defense even better. | | | Byrne's training camp power rankings - 07/25/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 The NFL's 32 organizations are all pouring into training camp at some point in the next week, which makes now a good time to take a look at where the teams rank. | | | Meadows reinstated by NFL, will hit free agent market - 07/25/2006
Source: ESPN, Charlotte Observer Reinstated by the league after a two-year hiatus from the game, offensive lineman Adam Meadows will now have the opportunity to choose the franchise with which he resumes his NFL career. Fantasy Impact: Meadows will probably sign as a backup with some team, provided he passes a physical. Whatever fantasy impact he has will be determined by his team role. | | | Making a case for John Fox - 07/24/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Over the weekend, as I watched the British Open, I found myself thinking more of Fox than legendary golfer Tiger Woods, who won his 11th major championship - seven behind all-time leader Jack Nicklaus, for those keeping track. The point is, the fact that Fox barely cracked the top 10 even bothered me while watching golf -- a whimsical sport completely opposite of football. Fantasy Impact: Fox is among the best coaches in the NFL, and that is always important when looking at a team's fantasy prospects. Draft Panthers players with comfort. | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 07/24/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Impacts: John Abraham, Eric Shelton, Darwin Walker Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Lions RB Kevin Jones has been working on catching the ball this offseason. Fantasy Impact: Abraham gets injured often enough that the Falcons will need a good backup. The Panthers love to pound the rock, which could make Shelton valuable if healthy. The Eagles need Walker to rebound to steady the DT rotation they like to use. | | | NFC's burning questions (Yahoo! Sports) - 07/24/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Terrell Owens, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Keyshawn Johnson Going into training camp, here are the NFC's 10 most important issues, beginning with Seattle's chances for a repeat. Fantasy Impact: TO is only the third-most important question? Either way, he will be watched closely in training camp. If Manning can improve on last year's number, the Giants will contend and fantasy owners will be grabbing Giants players with ease. Vick must improve his passing to become a reliable QB. Johnson may not be more than a no.3 fantasy WR, but if he can draw coverage off Smith and the run, he will help fantasy owners a lot. | | | Five teams that had great offseasons (and two popular delusions) - 07/24/2006
Source: RealFootball365 With training camp approaching, the National Football League's offseason is officially winding to its end. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers and 'Skins definitely made positive moves this offseason, and should hold multiple fantasy options. Interesting to see such a negative assessment of the Cowboys, but there could be some truth there. | | | NFL 2006: A first look - 07/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer A team-by-team breakdown as teams gear up for start of training camp. | | | Q&A: 10 hot questions - 07/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer With the Carolina Panthers set to report to training camp in Spartanburg on Friday, Observer staff writer Charles Chandler answers some burning (and some not-so-burning) questions about the team's upcoming season: Fantasy Impact: This team has Super Bowl aspirations, so even with the questions they should be a good source of fantasy players. Don't reach for them though. | | | Meadows might rejoin team - 07/21/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The Carolina Panthers likely must decide before training camp opens next Friday whether to allow veteran offensive lineman Adam Meadows to compete for a roster spot. Fantasy Impact: Meadows could be a solid backup lineman if he proves healthy. That is always useful for a team. | | | It's 1st & 10 again - 07/20/2006
Source: Dallas Star-Telegram It's that time of year again. Time for NFL teams to report to training camp, and time for NFL fans to speculate on the upcoming season. | | | 20 questions on the NFL - 07/20/2006
Source: Philadelphia Enquirer WITH NFL training camps about to open, it's time for our annual game of 20 Questions. | | | IN MY OPINION / LANGSTON WRTZ JR.: Panthers vs. Broncos in Super Bowl - 07/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Jake Delhomme ESPN's Sean Salisbury says Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme is the closest thing in the NFC to New England's Tom Brady and a "SportsCenter" panel picks Panthers over Patriots in the Super Bowl. Fantasy Impact: Delhomme could have a great season in leading his team to the big game. Don't overvalue him though. | | | Draft picks begin signing on dotted line - 07/19/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: DeAngelo Williams With the opening of training camp less than three weeks away, the Carolina Panthers have started sealing contract deals with their draft picks. Fantasy Impact: Until DeAngelo Williams and other early picks get signed, they won't be able to participate in camp and become fantasy factors. | | | OT Meadows to attempt comeback after two years off - 07/19/2006
Source: ESPN Seven-year veteran offensive tackle Adam Meadows, who abruptly retired less than two weeks into the Carolina Panthers' training camp in 2004, hopes to resume his NFL career and will formally petition the league for reinstatement by the end of this week. Fantasy Impact: If Meadows does stay in Carolina, he could start at RG. He has lots of experience, but his physical talents have dropped, so he wouldn't have much of an effect on the offense. | | | Shortt conduct brings stiffer steroids penalty - 07/18/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer The doctor who pled guilty to providing steroids and human growth hormone to some Carolina Panthers players was sentenced Monday to serve one year and one day in prison by a U.S. District Court Judge. Fantasy Impact: No need to worry; they don't rely on him anymore. | | | Byrne's NFL head coach power rankings - 07/18/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 The main thing these power rankings reveal is the coaching strength in the current NFL. Fantasy Impact: Stability at the top is important to any team's fantasy prospects. | | | Panthers on a roll; sign five rookies - 07/14/2006
Source: RealFootball365, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: James Anderson The Carolina Panthers agreed to terms with five of their draft picks, leaving three still unsigned. Fantasy Impact: All well and good, but we are still waiting on DeAngelo Williams, who will have the biggest impact. | | | Pasquarelli: Teams changing camp philosophies - 07/14/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN For a variety of reasons, teams have changed their approach to training camp, including cutting back two-a-day practices. Fantasy Impact: Fresher athletes could mean better performances during the season. However, it could also result in sloppy play from lack of practice. | | | No. 4 remains the Carolina constant - 07/13/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: John Kasay If the Carolina Panthers do reach the Super Bowl again next February, rest assured that John Kasay likely won't make another key error. Fantasy Impact: A consistent kicker is always helpful to any team, real or fantasy. | | | Panthers sign third-round pick linebacker Anderson - 07/12/2006
Source: ESPN, Charlotte Observer Impacts: James Anderson The Carolina Panthers have signed third-round draft choice James Anderson, an outside linebacker from Virginia Tech, to a three-year, $1.567 million contract. Fantasy Impact: With the OLB position up in the air, Anderson's signing gives him a better chance of pushing for major playing time. | | | Horton: Several teams face big question marks - 07/12/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN With training camps approaching, Gary Horton takes a look at 10 intriguing story lines for the 2006 season. Fantasy Impact: Intriguing story lines are always indications of big risks. Tread carefully. | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 07/10/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Jerious Norwood, Patrick Kerney, Justin Griffith Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Broncos rookie Jay Cutler has been as good as advertised this offseason. Fantasy Impact: Duckett will remain in Atlanta for now as a goal-line back, but that could change if Norwood performs well. Keeping some core players onboard should help the Falcons' fantasy prospects for a long time. Hartwig is an effective blocker and will help the running game in Carolina rise up to the top. Betts won't see the field enough to be a fantasy option, but he will be a hot pickup if Portis goes down. | | | James, Vinatieri signings among top free agency moves - 07/06/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN With the offseason winding down, Matt Williamson reviews the five most newsworthy moves of free agency. Fantasy Impact: The strengthing of the Panthers' interior defense should bolster their fantasy stats overall. | | | Clayton: Things you can count on in '06 - 07/05/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Terrell Owens, Drew Bledsoe John Clayton shares 10 random thoughts, including why he has high expectations for WR Randy Moss and the Dolphins in '06. Fantasy Impact: The Cowboys hope that Bledsoe and Owens find each other quickly, and if they do, they will put up strong fantasy numbers. | | | NFL Ultimate Playoffs - 06/27/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN SportsCenter's ultimate playoffs are over and the Panthers are champions. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers being picked to win means they have a strong all-around team, good news for fantasy owners. | | | Jenkins among early favorites for comeback honors - 06/27/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Kris Jenkins With the new season looming large, Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kris Jenkins should be considered the leading candidate to win the award. Fantasy Impact: Considered the top DT when healthy, Jenkins' presence should help in run defense and in attacking the QB. | | | Offseason overview: NFC South - 06/21/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN The Panthers are solid in all areas and once again should be the class of the NFC South, writes Matt Williamson. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers should dominate and be a great fantasy team. |
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