With DeShaun Foster’s release from the Panthers today, we’re seeing possibly the beginning of a new era in Carolina. That’s right, DeAngelo Williams, he of hype and hope, may become the featured running back for the Carolina Panthers.
The move makes a lot of sense for the Panthers. Foster was oft-injured and just never showed the kind of consistency they had when Stephen Davis was running through and over defenders. Further, the production just wasn’t there (he never surpassed 900 yards in any season) and the Panthers save some nice coin against the salary cap ($4.75 million).
But this move is probably as much about DeAngelo Williams as it is about Foster. Coach John Fox seemed content to allow Foster and Williams to have a time-share even though Williams was the more explosive runner during the 2007 season, averaging 5 yards per carry to Foster’s 3.5 yards per rush average.
Many fans in Carolina and fantasy football fans in general will likely applaud the move – after all, who likes a running back by committee anyway? Williams hasn’t had the opportunity to carry the rock as the featured guy but the Panthers’ GM has all the confidence in the world that Williams can be that guy:
“DeAngelo was a first-round pick two years ago and we have all the confidence in him and think that he’s very good,” Hurney said.
Foster has mentioned he will go on and continue playing, but Williams will be the focus of fans and fantasy owners. He’s just become a lot more relevant as of today.
injury problems? Explosiveness aside, I’m not too sold on DeAngelo Williams as a workhorse since he’s had a history of injuries. Furthermore, their move to release Foster is a clear indication that the Panthers plan on drafting a running back this year.
he’s another version of Norwood both are exciting change of pace backs but as DMP pointed out, injuries are going to be a concern. the Panthers like to be physical when they run the ball and I don’t see DeAngelo toting the rock 20 times a game without some serious health concerns. -bB
maybe, maybe not he’s not the most durable guy and we don’t know how he would hold up as the only guy in the backfield. I’m sure they’ll get someone that will relieve him at certain points, but he’s someone to watch with anywhere from 15-20 carries, which is what I’d see him getting at this point.
- Freddie Footballer