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Chris Hogan ‘definitely a big plus’ for Carolina Panthers

By Brandon Scott

FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 30: Chris Hogan #15 of the New England Patriots looks on from the sideline during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on September 30, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 30: Chris Hogan #15 of the New England Patriots looks on from the sideline during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on September 30, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Chris Hogan expected to boost Carolina Panthers wide receiver production in 2019.

A majority of the Carolina Panthers offseason has been spent on solidifying the pass rush in an effort to ensure they remain competitive within their division. Facing quarterbacks Drew Brees and Matt Ryan twice a season, the Panthers need to disrupt opponents every chance they get to not only assist their secondary but improve from a dramatic decline in their own production.

Lost in the additions of Gerald McCoy, Bruce Irvin and first-round pick Brian Burns have been the subtle changes at wide receiver. General manager Marty Hurney has been slowly constructing a roster filled with players who mesh with the plans of offensive coordinator Norv Turner, adding a few new faces among an unproven group of receivers.

The fact this group lacks a household name or legitimate number one option may be its greatest asset. Prior to quarterback Cam Newton leading the Panthers to a 15 win season and Super Bowl appearance, Carolina broke training camp with five receivers (Ted Ginn Jr., Corey Brown, Kevin Norwood, Jerricho Cotchery and Devin Funchess) of similar fashion.

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This year’s training camp competition is expected to be fierce among a burgeoning group of veterans and rookies. Eleven receivers are set to battle for only five or six positions and Chris Hogan is already turning heads, including that of coach Ron Rivera.

A seasoned receiver, who participated in each of the past three Super Bowls as a member of the New England Patriots, likened the competitiveness of Newton to his former quarterback, Tom Brady. Rivera sees the impact having someone like Hogan on the roster can have with an otherwise inexperienced group.

"“A very veteran guy, a smart, crafty receiver. The young guys we have can be impacted by that. He’s been there, been a big part of a championship and it’s been good to watch him interact with the other receivers. Definitely a big plus.”"

dark. Next. 2019 Key Defensive Players

Hopefully that “big plus” equals another MVP caliber season for Newton and return to the playoffs.

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