Phil Snow isn’t the problem, the Panthers defensive talent is
By Dean Jones
Some positives through nine weeks
Amid all the relative doom and gloom, there have been some positives for the Carolina Panthers from a defensive standpoint. This might not seem like much in the grand scheme of things, but it can be a solid foundation from which to build a quality unit moving forward.
The obvious one is Brian Burns, who has emerged as one of the NFL’s most explosive edge rushers and as complete a defensive end as you’ll find anywhere.
Burns is getting to the spot quickly and once he learns how to fully finish off plays, there will be no stopping him. The Panthers are relying heavily on the player at the present time and it’s a responsibility that seems to have been the making of him.
Rookie Jeremy Chinn is a livewire at the second level who has been nothing short of a revelation. Carolina’s decision to trade up to No. 64 and select the former Southern Illinois standout has been fully vindicated and the sky is the limit for him providing he continues to make strides.
The free-agent signing of cornerback Rasul Douglas was an inspired one that could result in a longer-term stay with the franchise, with the likes of Derrick Brown, Zach Kerr, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Donte Jackson also showing promise at various stages.
There does appear to be some talent at Carolina’s disposal, but just not enough to go from a good team to a great one.