Offense Overloaded, Defense Depleted!!!

The Carolina Panthers originally looked every bit as good as they did in the 2008 season. They maintained all of their weapons (except for a minor loss in return specialist Mark Jones, who did just above satisfactory work returning the ball in the regular season and playoffs) and added some more talent where they needed it in drafting defensive end Everette Brown and RB Mike Goodson. But the injuries Carolina suffered during training camp places very high causes for concern, especially on defense.On the other side of the ball, theres not much to worry about. Overall I dont see this team winning the divison but I do see a wildcard playoff contention with a nearly complete offense, a fighting defense that must step up, and a suprising display in special teams to make it through a more difficult schedule than last season.  Losing DT Ma'ake Kemoeatu from their interior is a huge hit the the core essence of a good run defense which Carolina proved above average last season, adding that on top of the temporary loss of star MLB Jon Beason and it poses even more problems. While the addition of Everett Brown and the return of Julius Peppers upgrades their pass rush, the run defense is a huge concern for Carolina. At least through Carolina's post-Superbowl loss history, the Panthers have not been good at handling major injuries. But if Kemoeatu's injury is the only major injury, Carolina still has a shot. On the offensive side of the ball, Steve Smith will most likeley once again be out for the season opener and probably the second game for the 3rd season in four years. No discussion is even needed for their elite backfield. As for QB Jake Delhomme, their sholud not be much cause for concern. Barring a reaggravation to his arm he should lead his team to around nine victories with above average stats and maybe win a playoff game or more. Though he caused 10 turnovers in his last 2 plaoff games, lets compare him to others such as Tony Romo, Drew Brees, and Phillip Rivers. The Three of these quarterbacks combined have less playoff wins than Delhomme and with another off-season of rest for the restructured arm should rebound from his 2 playoff game hangover.