The Carolina Panthers were division champs with a losing record last season. The Panthers defense was what kept them afloat in; their constant ability to generate pressure gave the NFC South constant headaches. This offseason the NFC South looks completely reloaded with all four teams vying for top spots. The Panthers however have somewhat slowed down.
A big draft need was to focus on the offensive side of the ball. Kelvin Benjamin did end up breaking out and showing that he could help Cam Newton reach heights his other receivers could not. Now the Panthers have attempted to give Cam another weapon in the 6'4 wide receiver Devin Funchess. This could be a game changer but the Panthers should have focused their first round pick on another offensive weapon for Newton.
Last season the Panthers were 19th in offensive points scored and 19th in pass yards, which is not as terrible as it could be but clearly Newton needs more weapons. The Panthers did sign Jarrett Boykin, Ted Gin, and Jerricho Cotchery to help bolster this offense but at best Ginn and Cotchery are band aids. Boykin the former Packer has a ton of potential and is extremely quick in his routes, he might provide a safe haven for Cam Newton's deep ball.
None of those players though are there to deliver the same impact to the offense that Funchess was drafted for. Devin Funchess will be a destructive force on the field and can provide clear mismatches for the Carolina offense, but if it is enough to propel Cam Newton to an elite level remains to be seen.
