The Carolina Panthers had a disappointing season in 2007, although it wasn’t the worst in the league. They managed to upset some powerhouse teams like the 49ers and Seahawks towards the end of the season. Will making a few roster changes help the team get back into playoff contention? You could discern the Panthers’ chances in 2008 if you take a careful look at the NFL Draft. The team was looking for a Major League playmaker this year.

The team began the draft by selecting running back Jonathan Stewart from Oregon and then offensive tackle Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh. Both players were first-round picks and relatively early overall, ranking 13th and 19th respectively. The team also selected two third-round picks in cornerback Charles Godfrey from Iowa and linebacker Dan Connor from Penn State. The fifth-round pick went to tight end Gary Barnidge of Louisville, and the sixth-round pick went to defensive tackle Nick Hayden of Wisconsin. For the final round there were three players: support line Hilee Taylor from the University of North Carolina, offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz from Oregon and offensive guard Mackenzy Bernadeau from Bentley.

This appears to be the “last chance” for current Panthers management and much of the roster. 2007 was forgivable due to the absence of notable players like quarterback Jake Delhomme. However, in the new season it is time for the Panthers to prove themselves. The 2008 draft picks will play a big role in determining the team’s success. No. 1 pick Jonathan Stewart has received praise for his skills and has been called a multi-dimensional player who has a gift for size, speed and experience. The biggest question about Stewart is his long-term durability, since he is injury-prone. How did the team get two first-round picks? They had to trade next year’s No. 1 pick to do it, but the team managed to sign offensive tackle Jeff Otah. Otah was physically impressive, weighing over 300 pounds and standing at 6’6. He also combined strength and athletics into a total package. However, experts are cautious about Otah’s experience level, as he didn’t start playing soccer until his senior year of high school. While Otah is seen as a raw player, he still has great potential.

Charles Godfrey was seen as a player with great depth, as he brought a lot of speed and quickness to his position, while Dan Conner earned even more praise for his aggressive style and excellent range. Hilee Taylor, Nick Hayden and Gary Barnidge also received praise from NFL pundits. Overall, most fans would describe the 2008 draft as a risk, but a highly calculated risk that provided valuable players as well as high-impact players and promising backup players. This is a very good draft play, especially considering the team didn’t have many holes to fill heading into 2008. This is definitely the breakout year for the current Panthers generation and so far, the draft looks promising.