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Carolina Panthers: Reasons to be excited about 2019 season

By Danny Jaillet

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 21: Wide receiver Curtis Samuel #10 of the Carolina Panthers jumps into the endzone for a touchdown against cornerback Ronald Darby #21 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on October 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 21: Wide receiver Curtis Samuel #10 of the Carolina Panthers jumps into the endzone for a touchdown against cornerback Ronald Darby #21 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on October 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
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PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 21: Linebacker Shaq Green-Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers looks on as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on October 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 21: Linebacker Shaq Green-Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers looks on as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on October 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

A star-studded defense

The defense has to be the top reason to be excited about 2019. After a rough season last year, the returning players will definitely look to turn the page, while the newcomers will take a look to make an impact.

Donte Jackson had a great season last year. He had four interceptions and nine pass deflections as a rookie. It will be hard to top those numbers, but I have a feeling he can do it. James Bradberry also looks to make an impact, as the ever-productive veteran cornerback looks to rebound after a tough season last year.

The defensive line is perhaps the most intriguing part of the defense. You have guys like Mario Addison and Kawaan Short coming back after productive seasons. Newcomer Gerald McCoy should fit wonderfully on the defensive line. Let’s also not forget about Brian Burns. I can’t wait to see how he punishes offensive lineman. If all goes according to plan, the defense will wreak havoc on the offenses of opposing teams.

Eric Washington will be tasked with leading this unit. He had trouble last year as well, as he could never seem to get his defense on the same page week after week. I have a feeling he’ll be a little bit better as he figures out how to manage this unit. It’s going to be important that he finds success this year.

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