The defensive line question is all up to what Julius Peppers does. Will he stay one more season? Will he go? I don't even think Peppers knows. He is being greedy, in handcuffing the organization down by taking up almost $17 million in cap room. We have had to cut several players just to keep him on the team. He will not sign the franchise tender therefore Carolina does not have the right to trade him on draft day. Although Peppers' 16.5 sacks in 08' was nice, he is only valuable when his heart is in the game. If he does come back to the Panthers next year, his heart will be left on the field. Why? Becuase we put a franchise tag on the athletic DE this is his last year with the team. He will want to work hard to get better offers from other NFL orginizations come 2010. BUt the Peppers situation, as of now is still a mystery.
Our other defensive ends are underrated. Veteran Tyler Brayton had a solid first year with the Panthers with 4.5 sacks and 40 tackles. Charles Johnson had six sacks coming off the bench with limited playing time, if Peppers leaves I believe Johnson can make an immediate impact for the team. He will not fill Peppers shoes but he is not some garbage player.
We still have rookie Hilee Taylor who played in 10 games and did record a sack. He needs more time to progress, and when he does i think Fox will give him a shot. Lastly, practice squad member Casper Brinkely could get some playing time with the departure of Peppers.
In the Defensive Tackle Position veteran players Damione Lewis and Maake Kemoeatu need some depth behind them. 2008 6th round pick Nick Hayden has not proved himself yet, but we do have some practice squad depth that may be moved onto the roster this year.
Look for Carolina to fill both the DT/DE position early.
Chances Carolina will use a high draft pick on a DL: Very High
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