Darin Gantt's observations

Writer who used to cover the team from the Rock Hill Herald, I believe, before going to Sporting News -- he's got connections -- I'd value his comments.

PERSONNEL ANALYSIS: Even though the Panthers spent money and picks on linebackers (free agent Landon Johnson and third-rounder Dan Connor), they're still giving first crack at the starting weak side job to veteran Na'il Diggs. He's a solid player and he's very good against the run, but he's far from a track star. They signed him to a three-year extension last December, but it's hard to imagine the soon-to-be 30-year-old as more than a short-term fix, given the other expenditures. However, their schematic changes up front are going to put more pressure on linebackers, putting a premium on reliable players. They're going to play DT Damione Lewis as a one-gap pass rusher, and sink Maake Kemoeatu down over the nose, which will mean more blockers with clean runs on the second level. Having Diggs gives them a guy they know will be in the right place at the right time, which you can't assume with a new guy or a rookie.

YOUTH MOVEMENT: The Panthers are expecting more out of RB DeAngelo Williams this year. He has shown flashes in limited roles (5.0 yards per carry last year), but they're going to go to him more often this year. He could be impactful in the screen game, which they hinted at last year before the quarterback position exploded and the offensive plan was thrown to the wind. He's improved the most at pass protection. It was once a liability but he can now be trusted back there.

SCOUTING REPORT: The most surprising production last year came from SS Chris Harris. Acquired in an emergency trade during training camp just before Mike Minter's retirement, Harris responded by breaking the franchise record with eight forced fumbles. He's occasionally exploited in the deep middle, but they think that'll ebb with a year in this system. It's also counteracted by the way he steps up and makes plays against the run. As importantly, he's poised to step into a leadership role on a defense that needs it. Most of the old hands who led them to playoff appearances are gone, but he and MLB Jon Beason injected life and personality into the Panthers stop-side.