What positions have we upgraded this year over last year?

I think the Panthers are better at DE, RB, LB but not as good at CB (scary huh) and WR. Hayes led this team in catchs last yr and he will be missed unless we get one of these FAs.

Bottom line is this: Panthers must win the division to get to the playoffs IMO. With 2 Wildcards available you've got to think - they go to the West and Central divisions:
Rams or Niners - Bears or Packers

Can we beat Tampa for the division title this year. It is possible, but not probable that the Cats are that much greater a team. Coaching will have a lot to do with any turnaround - but there will also be a learning curve as well. Sadly, I would look for playoffs next year at the earliest.

 

Playoffs shouldn't really be a consideration at this point. It's pretty tough to think a 1-15 team can improve enough to make the playoffs...although it can be done.
All I am looking for is improvement, I'll take 2 Sundays of joy over one anyday.

 

On D the LBs are the centerpiece of the new scheme according to Minter. If so, they are all unproven but almost certainly better than last years corps which acted mostly lost. The major improvement is in the coaching staff and will be reflected in the players. Slow is out and fast is in.

I also feel from observing the Henning teams of the past that we will see alot of stretch the field with fast wides sometimes 3 going deep over the middle, getting the D loose then run, run,run. Henning didn't care much for size in his receivers at Washington only speed. I think that perhaps Smith will shine this year if he can run precise routes that is required. Jeffers had better come back fast if he is going to fit.

Different systems require different talents. Whether we have the guns to carry out our new schemes is the main question. I really believe our OL can fill the bill and make a name for themselves this year. They will all look improved because of fitting the scheme. Also Campion just might be a future Panther Hog. When you read about this guy very little is ever negative.