Ranking the 5 most underrated Panthers players in franchise history

Dan Morgan – Former Carolina Panthers LB

The Carolina Panthers have been blessed with some exceptional linebackers throughout history. Whether it was Kevin Greene, Jon Beason, or Thomas Davis, this area of the field has rarely been a problem on defense aside from the last two seasons since the shock retirement of perennial All-Pro Luke Kuechly due to health concerns.

Another name on the list that goes widely overlooked is Dan Morgan. The former Miami standout enjoyed a phenomenal college career with the Hurricanes before the Panthers swooped to take him No. 11 overall in the 2001 NFL Draft, which came with heightened expectations and something that piled further pressure on the second-level defender.

Morgan’s production when on the field was exemplary. However, a series of troubling injuries made life difficult for the player and he eventually retired following the 2007 campaign.

Even though this was a significant blow to Morgan and the Panthers, that should not detract from what a supreme difference-maker he was. His ferocious tackling was matched by exceptional intelligence and ability to be in the right place at the right time on crucial downs.

Morgan is now making a name for himself as a rising talent evaluator and front office figure within the Panthers and was even interviewed for the vacant Pittsburgh Steelers general manager position earlier this year. A role he is sure to thrive in the not-too-distant future.