5 greatest Panthers to never make an NFC Championship game
By Dean Jones
Charles Godfrey – Former Carolina Panthers S
- 2008-2014
This current Carolina Panthers roster could certainly use someone like Charles Godfrey to put alongside Jeremy Chinn right now. The versatile safety made a lasting impression across the organization, gaining a reputation as a hard hitter and someone who could hunt the ball down superbly in coverage.
A third-round pick out of Iowa, Godfrey was given plenty of responsibility right from the word go and thrived under the spotlight. This continued over the next four years before the Panthers eventually cut him following regression seven games into the 2014 season.
Godfrey ended up signing with the Atlanta Falcons without ever reaching the heights of old. That being said, he was a tremendous asset to the organization and one that can count himself unlucky not to challenge for major honors in an NFC Championship game, especially with the level of talent around him at certain stages.
Considering where the Panthers drafted Godfrey, he more than exceeded expectations.
The player ended his seven years in Carolina with 11 interceptions, 33 passes defended, seven forced fumbles, three sacks, 355 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and seven quarterback hits, playing both the free and strong safety positions.
Outstanding production from Godfrey, who came into the league with many questioning his ability to make a smooth transition into the professional ranks.