Carolina Panthers rookie linebacker Ben Boulware understands that his situation is both a good one and a tough one.
By his estimation, the team has room enough for four extra linebackers behind starters Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis, and situational player Shaq Thompson.
Those spots have frontrunners, too. Backup middle linebacker David Mayo has proven himself valuable on special teams and is eager to step into the role left vacant by A.J. Klein (who signed with the Saints in free agency). Alongside Mayo are Jared Norris, Ben Jacobs and Jeremy Cash, all of whom have at least a year of NFL experience.