2007 Outlook

Delhomme comes off his worst season as a starter when he only threw for 2825 yards in 2006 – his previous low was 3219 in his first season. Delhomme also threw fewer passes (431) last year than in any other year as the Panthers quarterback with a 61% completion rate (the highest of his career). His 11 interceptions was also a career low. The Panthers as a team imploded last year and the offensive coordinator was fired. Jeff Davidson comes over from Cleveland though he spent most of his career in New England as a tight ends and offensive line coach.

Placing the blame for 2006 on Delhomme would be at least partially inaccurate if not entirely wrong. Nothing worked in Carolina while several players left injured – including offensive linemen. Davidson is ushering in a new offense that has excited the players unlike last year when players like Steve Smith openly criticized the play calling. The loss of Keyshawn Johnson will be compensated for by Drew Carter and eventually rookie Dwayne Jarrett if all goes according to plan. New for this year will be more slant routes for Smith to turn into long gainers and more screen passes to the running backs. Unlike 2006, the Panthers appear re-energized going into the season and Delhomme could be a very nice value in fantasy drafts from teams who only remember last year. His two seasons previous to last year averaged 3600 yards and 26 touchdowns. The Panthers schedule this year is also much lighter than in 2006.

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