Entering the offseason, Carolina Panthers general manager Marty Hurney had two major positions to fill due to retiring veterans. Both defensive end Julius Peppers and center Ryan Kalil were captains and each left a strong legacy in Carolina. Excellent both on the field and in the locker room, finding their replacements presented a tall order.
Even without the retirements, Hurney knew the focus this offseason would be up front. The Panthers offensive line was riddled with injuries last season and their defense dropped from No. 3 in sack production, to near last in the league.