Location: Charlotte, N.C. | Stadium: Bank of America Stadium (73,298) | Owner: Jerry Richardson | GM: Marty Hurney Coach: John Fox | League Championships: 0
Panthers QB Jake Delhomme had Tommy John surgery on his throwing arm in October and missed most of the 2007 season. But Delhomme practiced with the first-team offense during OTAs and said the arm feels as strong as ever. It likely won't be until Delhomme plays in an actual game – with defenders slapping and tugging at his arm – that he knows how sound it actually is. And for now, the Charlotte Observer reports, Delhomme will be limited in training camp. "Will I have a pitch count in camp? I'm sure I will, because it will be the smart thing to do," Delhomme said. (Updated 06/13/2008)
The Herald reports Carolina first-round RB Jonathan Stewart is largely recovered from offseason toe surgery. Whether he's ready to practice fully remains to be seen. Either way, his absence has opened the door for DeAngelo Williams to claim a starting job. Williams might be the incumbent, but it's Stewart who best matches coach John Fox's philosophy. A thicker, physical runner, Stewart appears to be the best chance they have of replicating Stephen Davis circa 2003, and all they did was go to the Super Bowl that year. They'll use them both, but it's hard to imagine Stewart not having more carries by December. (Updated 07/21/2008)
Panthers DL Julius Peppers spent his fifth straight practice Sunday at right defensive end, a new position for him. It's pretty clear the Panthers plan to keep him there, reports the Carolina Growl. (Updated 05/05/2008)
Third-string quarterback Brett Basanez was placed on Injured Reserve by the Panthers on Aug. 26, ending his season two days after he severely sprained his right wrist in a 24-7 preseason loss to the Patriots. Basanez later said that he had one of his ligaments off the bone but was OK otherwise. (Updated 01/10/2008)
