Optimism abounds at Panthers' camp

CHARLOTTE -- After an offseason of major additions, big-name cuts and rumors galore, the Carolina Panthers report to training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., today to formally begin preparations for the 2008 season.

As usual, there's optimism aplenty. The Panthers, like the 31 other NFL teams, get a fresh start to try to put together a special season.

There's reason to believe that's possible.

The offensive line, now gargantuan, has been remade. First-round pick Jonathan Stewart adds a hulking presence to the running game. The defense features perhaps the franchise's deepest linebacking corps but with significant questions about whether the defensive line is stout enough.

Gone are former household names Mike Rucker (retired), Dan Morgan (released, then retired), Kris Jenkins (traded) and DeShaun Foster (cut).

Two bedrock players whose futures have been in question -- defensive end Julius Peppers and quarterback Jake Delhomme -- are back amid hopes that they'll have big years.

Peppers had a mere 2 1/2 sacks last season, easily a career low, but is said to have worked extremely hard in the offseason to return to form. Team officials say there was never any validity to speculation that they were trying to trade him. They're now trying to strike a long-term deal with him.

Delhomme's recovery from reconstructive elbow surgery is said to be complete. General manager Marty Hurney said the team is doggedly committed to Delhomme being the starter. Hurney's comments about Delhomme to the Charlotte Observer this week tell you everything you need to know about Carolina's potential interest in Brett Favre -- none whatsoever -- should the Packers release him.

"Jake Delhomme is our starting quarterback," Hurney said. "He's a leader. He's a winner. He says his arm feels better than it has in years.

"Jake symbolizes the kind of player and the kind of person we want as a Panther."

Players should begin arriving at their Wofford College dorm in mid-morning. As they gather, here are a few items worth noting:

* Team trainers will be careful with Delhomme and Stewart (who had toe surgery before the NFL draft). Though both are said to be fully recovered, they'll probably get some rest in practices to lower their risk of re-injury.

* Expectations are high not only for Stewart but also for third-year running back DeAngelo Williams. A 2006 first-round pick and former Memphis All-American, Williams hopes to be even more of a mainstay on the offense than before, and not just be a change-of-pace back.

* One of the biggest question marks is whether the Panthers got enough defensive line help in the offseason.With Jenkins traded to the Jets and Rucker retired, what once was the strength and trademark of the team now is unproven.

* Competition will be stiff at right guard and weakside linebacker.

Vying for the guard spot are Keydrick Vincent, Milford Brown and Toniu Fonoti.

Na'il Diggs returns as the weakside starter but may not be able to hold off former Bengals starter Landon Johnson and rookie Dan Conner, a Penn State All-American and third-round draft pick.

* Negotiations with first-round picks Stewart and Jeff Otah were ongoing Thursday. Team officials still hope both will get deals done in time for the opening practice of camp Saturday at 9:10 a.m.