2019 NFL Power Rankings: Who heads into summer at No. 1?
By Ian Cummings
No. 8 – Carolina Panthers
As is always the case, the fate of the Carolina Panthers’ 2019 NFL season depends on Cam Newton’s health. But when one looks past that prerequisite for success, it’s clear that the Panthers have put together a fairly solid roster around Newton.
It feels appropriate to start with the offense, where Carolina has put together a solid offensive line and supporting cast for Cam Newton, for once in his career. Newly-acquired center Matt Paradis is a welcome addition on the interior, and he joins stalwart guard Trai Turner and tackles Taylor Moton and Daryl Williams.
Elsewhere, the Panthers have given Newton a bevy of weapons, including, but not limited to, Christian McCaffrey, Chris Hogan, D.J. Moore, Aldrick Robinson, Curtis Samuel, Greg Olsen, and Ian Thomas. Norv Turner has crafted a fairly efficient offense around Newton, and with so many young pieces on the rise, 2019 could be a very good year.
Defensively, the Panthers lost their way a bit in 2018, but this year, they’ll look to rebound with superb talents like Brian Burns and Gerald McCoy on the defensive line. Last we checked, Luke Kuechly is still an elite linebacker, and he’ll be backed up by an improving secondary that hosts the likes of rookie pick leader Donte Jackson, James Bradberry, Eric Reid, and Rashaan Gaulden.
Ron Rivera will have his work cut out for him to get back to the NFC Championship, and back to the peak he conquered when the Panthers went 15-1. But as long as Newton stays healthy, the pieces appear to be coming together for another run in 2019. And if not in 2019, then soon after that.