Marty Hurney and John Fox have basically bet their futures on Jonathan Stewart and Jeff Otah.
The Oregon running back and Pittsburgh offensive tackle were both drafted in the first round by the Panthers, who mortgaged next year's draft to move up and get Otah.
The Panthers draft, on paper, looks impressive. Stewart, if healthy, may be the opening day starter at RB. Otah could (should?) be the opening day right tackle. Iowa defensive back Charles Godfrey, who played corner in college, is expected to play safety for the Panthers. He is also expected to be able to challenge for a starting spot.
The Panthers' coaching staff and front office personnel are under a lot of pressure going into next season. If the team does not make the playoffs, changes are probably going to take place. Otah's development will be crucial, simply because of what was sacrificed to get him. The Panthers gave the Philadelphia Eagles their 2nd- and 4th-round picks this year, plus 2009's first round pick, to get the 19th pick in this year's draft and nab Otah. If next year's pick is better than 19th, and Otah wasn't a starter, then Fox and Hurney may very well end up unemployed.
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