Why The Panthers Are A Perfect Fit For Vick

The number one question now in the NFL's training camp and preseason period is Michael Vick. Former Falcons quarterback will land, or even if he will play in the NFL. There has been speculation on the teams and if there is a fit for the former number 1 draft pick. Some have said teams such as Vikings, Dolphins, Patriots, or Steelers. A match up that is getting overlooked is the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers coming off there best season since NFC championship season in 2003. The 2009 season ended on a shocking note when the Arizona Cardinals upset the Panthers 33-13 when Jake Delhomme had 6 turnovers. The Panthers who have always had a lot faith in Delhomme, gave him a 5 year 42.5 million dollar extension keeping him under contract until the 2014 season. Making it not likely that they are in the Vick market. The Panthers are a piece of the puzzle away from competing for a Super Bowl title. Michael Vick is the spark the "cardiac cats" need. Vick had his best season when he was a part of the "DVD"(Dunn, Vick, Duckett) running game, including having the best season for a running quarterback in 2006 when he ran for over 1000 yards. The running game for the Panthers are as talented if not more talented then that running game was, with "smash and dash" DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart respectively. This would instantly become the best running game in the NFL, this of course assuming Vick has the moves he had before the prison sentence. Also a lot is made of Vick in accuracy as a passer, which is understandable the numbers speak for themselves. But put him in an offense with Muhsin Muhammad and Steve Smith I think he the talent around him to make up for his mistakes. "Moose" an effective possession receiver can act as a security blanket (similar to what Alge Crumpler was for him in Atlanta). Then you have Steve Smith, one of the most electrifying receivers in the league, his ability to go up for any ball is amazing and all Vick would have to do is use that huge cannon of an arm and get the ball down field, which is what Delhomme does to get the ball to him. Besides the personal being perfect for Vick the familiarity with the NFC South would be better then going to a foreign in the AFC somewhere. On paper this seems like a match up made in heaven. Sadly for Panther fans this would never be, Jerry Richardson owner of the Panthers isn't one to take risk on people with character issues or problems in the past. So although situations like these are fun to think about, this one is unlikely because of the trust the organization has in Delhomme and the distraction that Michael Vick brings to a camp. It will be interesting to see in the coming weeks if anyone gives Vick a chance to make there roster.