Wow. Talk about a blindside hit on the quarterback.
The Carolina Panthers’ move to release veteran quarterback Jake Delhomme Thursday night was a stunner (see the story here).
I know Delhomme would have cost a lot of money to retain. I know he had his worst season ever in 2009 after getting a huge contract extension. But I still believe the Panthers just made a big mistake.
The Panthers can spin this one all they like – and certainly they will. That it was a difficult decision but it had to be made for financial reasons. That they love Jake and they didn’t want to do it, but that they simply had to because of the young nucleus of players that is going to be clamoring for contract extensions soon.
But you know what? This decision really didn’t have to be made. Not now. The NFL just entered new territory – a 2010 season with no salary cap. Any “salary-cap reasons” for this move are utterly hypothetical, because right now there is no salary cap.
No, I don’t necessarily think Delhomme should have started in 2010. But are the Panthers really ready to hand the keys to the offense over to Matt Moore on a permanent basis?
Panther head coach John Fox did everything he could possibly think of to keep Moore out of the starting lineup last season until Delhomme’s broken finger finally forced Fox’s hand and Moore went 4-1 as a starter.
So now, suddenly, Moore is the savior? Hey, maybe he is. But what if Moore gets hurt? Who plays then? (This obviously means the Panthers are going to have to sign another QB or, more likely, draft one).
I’m all for the Panthers keeping Moore. The high “tender” they placed on him this week was a good move that will just about guarantee the restricted free agent will still be a Panther in 2010.
But Delhomme, 35, should have been kept around as the ultimate, gold-plated insurance policy. We all know how great a leader he is in the locker room. We all know how smart he is and what he means to the franchise. You don’t fire a guy like that if you don’t have to.
This dismissal will please a certain faction of Panther fans, of course. The “Jake haters,” as they came to be known, have wanted Delhomme to be benched or fired for years.
But until calendar year 2009 -- which Delhomme began with an awful six-turnover game against Arizona from which he never recovered – No.17 was the best quarterback in Panther history. He won five playoff games here. He had a dozen game-winning drives in the final two minutes or in overtime. He would have been the MVP of the 2003 season’s Super Bowl had Carolina’s defense been able to stop Tom Brady.
This reminds me a lot of another March day, when Carolina coach George Seifert abruptly released Steve Beuerlein in 2001. That was an even more ridiculous decision, because Seifert picked Jeff Lewis over Beuerlein.
Moore is a lot better than Lewis. But I’m still wondering why you would do this.
Carolina has done it now, though. Delhomme is gone – and a part of all that loyalty claptrap the Panthers talk about constantly just walked out the door with him.
We're moving!
9 years ago
Posts
134 comments:
Scott, I'm sorry, but you're what's wrong with the media. If the Panthers keep Delhomme, let him start or play again and he blows it for the umpteenth time, then you would say that the Panthers should have cut him in the offseason. They finally did what fans have been clamoring for for so long. There's no crystal ball in sports. The Panthers are too loyal one moment, but not loyal enough another. The Panthers made the right move because eventually you have to say goodbye, and, most importantly, they rid themselves of his roster bonus due of 10 Mil+ and the cap hit if the cap were to become reinstated next season if a new CBA is reached.
Scott you're not smart. They had to do this now so they won't have a huge salary cap hit in the future. The 13 million in guarantee is basically coming from Jerry's pockets and not affect the cap in coming years.
Don't need to pay his $10MM bonus in the spring and can pay off his $13MM guaranteed without salary cap implications.
If they kept him, would have been a gold-plated liability not insurance
Lets just rebuild and get rid of the deadwood thats been a cancer on this team over the past year.
I understand yall's arguments, but the Panthers didn't actually have to do anything. The Panthers have robbed Peter to pay Paul for many years -- constantly restructuring contracts and staying under the cap. That's always possible. And now is the time they pick to balance the budget, when it's an uncapped year? Sorry, I don't buy the logic. I understand it, but I don't buy it.
I love your articles Scott and agree with you on most topics, but it is time to move on and let Jake go. This young QB needs confidence and this will be his time to shine or fall into QB wasteland. I understand the backup situation but i'd rather have a rookie throwing those picks than a veteran that doesn't know when to walk away. GO MATT! GO PANTHERS!
Scott,
I couldn't agree with you more. Don't let the tiny fraction of Panthers fans that hate Jake ruin what should be a sad moment for all of us.
We love you Jake! Thanks for the memories!
It's obvious sports writers never really played some of the sports they write about. Yes, Jake was a good leader and good presence on the team but he also was not the answer and in this world it's not what you was, it's what are you doing now. He had every chance and Fox and Hurney gave him way more than any other team would have. At some point you have to cut your losses, he was a decent qb never a great one. Matt Moore showed what this offense can be with someone who can roll out the pocket and allow other receivers to be open besides Smith. I think the only mistake made by the Panthers so far was cutting Lewis. Hopefully we can build through the draft and free agency.
I think the reason why the Panthers organization made this decision today came on the heels of Peppers decision also. It's basically to say that THIS TEAM means business and they will NOT allow another year of players calling the shots and making demands or whining to the organization.
Not saying Delhomme does any of those things, but Peppers is a classic example of such. I'm sure the Panthers' coaching staff told Jake this decision much earlier than the media found out about it. I'm also quite sure Fox had probably told Jake he would have to play as a backup in 2010 and relinquish his starting rights. Jake probably didn't want it and demanded a trade. Who's to know what really happened behind the scenes.
Scott, you're right. Maybe the Panthers didn't have to make this call TODAY, but it was bound to happen before the season kicked off; plus, it sends a strong message to the players on this team. Play hard, or start packing. It's time to WIN
Scott, i see why people say that your opinion is garbage. You waffle more than Brett Farve. How is JD a 'gold plated insurance policy' if he is throwing multiple INTs every week? 17 still a leader? Anybody (rookies included)can play better than that... Normally the 'LEADER' is not responsible for sinking the ship but is tasked with providing the direction for success...
C'mon Scott, think about what you are saying before you say it.
Scott, just because we are in an uncapped year means it's alright to spend unnecessary money. Face it, Jake's done and his contract is a hefty price for a back up. With the uncertainty with the CBA the Panthers are playing it safe and not dishing out money unless it's deserved. If Moore gets hurt next year is Delhomme that great of an option that it's worth risking having him go back on the book when an agreement is reached?
Scott let me ask you a question. Lets say you were employed and your manager was the best the company had seen. A true leader yet he could not do the job anymore so the owners gave you the job cause you performed at a higher level than him. COULD YOU REALLY BE EFFECTIVE AS A LEADER TO YOUR TEAM IF YOUR OLD MANAGER (LEADER) WAS WORKING FOR YOU AND LOOKING OVER YOUR SHOULDER? How effective would you really be? The only way to give Matt Moore a "TRUE OPPORTUNITY" is to give him the reins and not be looking over his shoulder for Delhommes approval. Remember when Richardson asked Pep to be the leader over his mentor Rucker? 2.5 sacks! This is the only way for the Panthers to actually move forward.
You had to have written this before knowing all the facts(salary cap implications, etc). I'm not even going to believe that you believe this crap you wrote.
what a joke of a column. we all know how smart Jake is? is this book smart? horse smart? Bojangles smart? It certainly isn't quarterback smart. He consistently makes the worst decisions in the pocket. Also, if TO screams and pitches a fit, he's a cancer, Jake has passion. Jake has always been a poor excuse for a starting NFL QB. Thank god this day came, only 4-5 years to late. Fowler, you are truly a moron.
I also think Jake was like that really Hot Girlfriend who was a total B!TCH. You want to have a loving relationship but you just can't stand to be around her for very long. She ends up leaving with a bunch of your money but, somehow you are thankful the emotional roller coaster is over. LOL - So, I say good bye with my favorite Jake memory
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uE7ZBTvrtIA
GO PANTHERS
According to your own paper's poll that "certain faction" is apparently in the majority. A definitively large majority, actually.
Oh, and by the way, THIS is you're "gold plated insurance policy"???? I think not.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Agl8P4EQtE
Hmmm...Scott, if you're still wondering why the move was made, is it genuine to start off with a condemnation? Just askin'.
Scott, as usual, you are all over the place with the Jake Delhomme issue...
I remember in January of 2009 after the Arizona beatdown, you said Jake looked like a "raw rookie" in that game and just a few months ago you said Jake DIDN'T deserve the big-money extension that they gave him. In addition, you "predicted" Jake would be the number 2 QB for the Panthers next year. Bottomline, should a "BACKUP QB" be paid that kind of money and count against "THE CAP" for the next few years, Scott? Sure, next season is uncapped TEMPORARILY for one year only! However, the new CBA is an unknown while Jake's contract is/was a reality for the next few years.
The extension was a "risk" that failed and Jerry is a businessman who's cutting his loses now! What is so hard to understand about that, Mr. Fowler? Besides, even during the past season, Jake looked like a "raw rookie"!
Scott, I must agree with you this time. Give Jake one more year to groom Matt, and allow his fans to show him some love during the season (everyone loves the backup.) I liked Matt when he came up thru the Cowboy's organization, but thought he showed some flaws last year. And the games he won came pretty much after the season was finished. Since it appears the Panthers are house cleaning, i would also trade Steve Smith, and get something for him while he still had some value. A quality tight end, more offensive line help, etc. Now's the time, because I doubt the Panthers will make the playoffs with Matt at the helm.
'Scott was you even watching any of the panthers games last season,or where you on the moon eating Ice-Cream...Jake was bad,he's 35 and in the NFL It's about being productive and consistence...Jake wasn't life goes on wake up Scott and come down off the moon we as Panthers fans deserves better!!!
At times I thought that this was written by a family member of Delhomme's. You are entitled to an opinion but that mentality and that kind of bad decision making have plagued Charlotte sports for years. Sure they could keep Jake on the bench but the people were calling for his removal. When you're paid that amount of money, you are expected to make some big plays. Leave your emotions and "he's a great guy" speech at the door. We want WINS! How long should fans hold on to the "he took us to the Super Bowl" memories??? Who cares about his contract when you stand to lose the support of your fans!!! The team became a laughing stock of the NFL and Jake was one of the main reasons for it. He will do well with another team but the pressure was too much for him here. I will miss those Bojangles commercials though. Ba dum TSSSSSSSSK!!!
Compare it to keeping an old used car. Do you keep repairing it and hope it will give you some free miles or do yu finally junk it and start with something new with more future potential. I say Jake has played like a junker for too long.
I liked the part where he said that he 'DIDN'T NECESSARILY THINK HE SHOULD START'....LMAO!!
Scott, it will be intersting to hear the whole story which the Panthers usually keep out of the media.
Was Jake asked to restructure his contract and take a significant cut to be the back-up?
Are the Panthers interested in bringing in another veteran starter to take over or compete for the starting job next season?
I thoght a contract reduction for Jake was what was needed for this coming season. Keep Jake but at a significant lower cost, not of a starter and let him be the veteran mentor on the bench.
I'm stunned. I don't think anyone saw this coming. And I agree it's a mistake unless there is something out there the rest of us don't know, which there probably is. But no matter what you say about his play, few can argue that Jake is not a class act. I certainly appreciate the memories.
For all of you who say the Panthers should have kept Jake as a back-up - did Jake want to stay on as a back-up?
Moore is at a crossroads- he either takes the keys and drives or he crashes. Having to battle through a QB controversy is not the best interest of him or the team.
Scott you are dead wrong.
-original PSL holder
I feel bad for Jake, I think he's a genuinely good guy and yes, he has done a lot for the team over the years. I hate the fact that his career has taken the turn it has taken in the last couple of years.
But I don't feel bad at all that his time here has ended. There comes a time when you have to make a move, and a time when your career comes to an end, and that time is now.
And I have a hard time believing that you feel this is a mistake, Scott. I think you're simply stirring the pot here.
and they pay you to write for this newspaper???
Actually they intended to cut AJ Feeley but threw the pink slip to the wrong guy.
I am sort of with Scott on this one (which is rare). We did we have to do this now? What if some team out there is willing to go after Matt Moore despite the tender we put on him? The fact of the matter is that he is still a free-agent, even though he is restricted. If someone comes along and offers him a ridiculous deal...who is to say that this CHEAP version of the Panthers will match it? Honestly, who is to say that they should match it if it really is a high price tag? I could see a Tampa type team offering him a high price, simply to drive it up on us...Delhomme was our trump/bluff card until we had Moore's name on the dotted line of a longer contract.
Now we face a roster with Matt Moore and McCown as the only QB's. We definitely have to go out and get another. I still highly doubt that we will draft a QB. We have no first round pick. I honestly felt that we had greater needs with our 2nd round pick than QB anyways. If we draft a QB in the 3rd of 4th round, we cannot seriously expect them to contribute....
Basically this was a CHEAP move, along with the others that have been made thus far (Maake, Lewis, and Pep). I think at some point you have to stop stripping this team of it's core players....
There are ten million reasons they let him go. In today's economy sometimes you have to cut your losses when you can and minimize the bleeding. I wonder if your article was to stir up comments like mine or that you are really that blind to how to run a business and to make the business profitable. I guess being a writer has not exposed you to those harsh realities yet. Everyone likes Jake, but the Panthers are to blame for signing him to the ridiculous contract when they could have signed him for a lot less on a two year deal.
This is also addition by subtraction!
Scott, you botched this one. First, I am not a "Jake Hater" as you suggest would be the only criteria for anyone agreeing with htis. Secondly, when you choose a performance based career, performance actually matters.
Not sure why anyone would be all sappy about this. Nice guy to be sure. I've fired a lot of "nice guys". If your paid to catch and can't, you leave. If you're paid to throw to the team with your color jersey and can't, you leave too.
Let's see how well your arguement holds up in the court of the other 31 NFL team's interest and comp plan.
Scott. I understand your reasoning but, as a fan, I have really grown tired of holding my breath every time Jake would drop back to pass to see which team he would throw the ball to (not trying to be funny). For whatever reason (arm, confidence, no competition) he lost his accuracy which, to me, is much more important than his leadership skills. His legacy will be that he took us to the super bowl and played lights out. That's the Jake I will choose to remember.
Is it going to be addition by subtraction when the cut Mushin too, then replace him with no one? I mean how many guys can we let go before we as fans just have to say "do something with our money!?!"
Scott,
I have to respectfully disagree here. This was the right decision and it should have been made back at the end of the season. The Panthers do save money in this and we avoid the spectacle of a QB competition in training camp. Let Moore get 100% of the attention in TC, and let him focus on being the starter. Feeley is a very serviceable backup and will get lots of time with the offense in TC.
Now, if Moore does have a bad game (and he will), we don't have to face the din of people wanting Jake back.
Jake will still go down as the best QB the Panthers have had. But now he has, in my opinion, a serious confidence problem. Let some other team find out if he can regain that swagger (I think he can), the Panthers can't afford to be that patient.
I would like to see who they could get in round 2 or 3 at QB. Moore would have to understand, we're not all in on you, we have to protect the franchise.
Scott,
Your have forgotten the most important factor the NFL is a Business. I like Jake and appreciate what he has done with the Panthers. But after numerous chances last year it was obvious his career is over.
Hopefully Moore is the answer, but if not the answer is not Jake. The Panthers will have to looks elsewhere. It may not be the best position to be in but it is where they are because of Jake and his contract.
Cutting Jake today was done with a return of a salary cap anticipated in the future. As you point out there is no cap this year, so take the entire hit when it is least painful to the entire organization and move on. This move was inevitable. They are positioning the team for life after Jake something they should have addressed two years ago!
The team would NOT play for Jake anymore, its that simple.
"GOLD PLATED INSURANCE POLICY"????
That's laughable
YOU have bashed Jake for two years...along with your counter-parts....Yes Jake had a bad year BUT all this came down to was MONEY....I do however,agree with your article because at some point it is ALL about loyality and leadership and he WAS a great leader....It's a sad sad day for me..someone who has been a loyal fan of the Panthers and a MORE loyal fan to Jake even when he didn't play well.
Scott,
Seriously, a gold-platted insurance policy. You usually have good insight, but I think you're way off on this one. I would take Feely and McKown over Jake. The Panthers should draft another QB like LeFevre.
I truly believe that Jake is a good guy, and I have to think that he still feels like he can start for an NFL team. There's no way that team will be the Carolina Panthers. If John Fox had chosen Jake over Matt in the preseason, all hell would have broken lose among the fan base. So why not cut your losses now, and give Jake and his agent time to sign with a new team? Ultimately, isn't this a sign of respect for the man, as well as a recognition that he was at the end of the road as a Panther?
Somewhat of a relief to see Jake go. Not sure what's wrong or right on the money side / cap side of things but it's become a distraction for the team, guys in locker room, and the city. It's time for him to go but he's still my a favorite panther of all time and will be missed. Scott Plybon
It's a great move and once again I am disappointed by the lack of sophisticated knowledge our local sports writers have.
They are extraordinarily reactive as opposed to having original thought and foresight.
While I am sad to see Jake go this ushers in a new era for the Panthers. The inconsistent play of Jake and Julius are now gone for the hopes of a consistent and tough future.
Hopefully we will be very aggressive in free agency since we do not have a #1 pick. Seeing Antrel Rolle or Darren Sharper in Carolina Blue would be very nice additions.
Scott Fowler you are a good writer but you are so far off base about Jake that it is laughable.
Wake up and enter the real world.
I'm sorry, I have to agree that this is a horribly thought out post from a usually great sports writer.
A few things: First, Jake has never been a great quarterback, he's been a game manager. He didn't win games in the past, it's just that 18 months ago he started losing them. Second, Of course he leads in most categories, the team is only 14 years old and Jake was the QB for 7 of them. And, not ironically, the one category he doesn't lead is rating (Steve Beuerlein).
An unlooked issue here is the ineptitude in Panthers management. Jake was a second casualty of the Julius Peppers deal, seeing as his contract had to be restructured so they could afford Peppers. I'm not saying Peppers sucks, but no defensive player was worth that much money, and now we're going to be paying for it for three more years bc of the Jake deal.
If you want to have a family, then have Peppers and Delhomme come over on thanksgiving and play in the back yard. I want a winning football team, and until they make descisions with that goal in mind, I want a refund ...
Minor earthquake this morning. Epicenter at BOA Stadium as Panther fans read the headline. Sorry to see the end of an era, but want to push the reset button. Got my doubts that Matt can bring the excitement back. Should Jake be the next addition to the Hall of Honor? What's the wait time?
Scott you and and your excuse for an objective sports column has officially jumped the shark. Jake, by the sweet grace of God, is finally GONE. I am shocked, after all your negative comments about him that you could possibly defend him now.
It was a business decision, no spin necessary. It prevents a $13 million dollar hit to our salary cap. How is that a bad thing?!
Face it-the quarterback's stats incorporate the failures of his offense. And the team record includes the deficiencies of the defense. Jake's good at his job, but he's been made the fall guy. How often did we see a glancing blow instead of a catch as receivers were hit in the hands, chest, head with an on-target pass? We saw receivers run the wrong route and on-target passes hit receivers in the back because they didn't bother to turn around. Offensive line penalties consistently robbed us of yardage. These are not quarterback deficiences. Jake was doing HIS job but He cannot do everyone's job. I liked his style-I'll miss him.
Scot wrote; "But until calendar year 2009 -- which Delhomme began with an awful six-turnover game against Arizona from which he never recovered – No.17 was the best quarterback in Panther history."
That's like saying "We're #1 in Solar Powered Flashlights"...
From economics, sunk costs are sunk. Just because we have to pay him anyway does not mean we have to use up a valuable roster spot on someone I think most agree has lost whatever touch he once had. The money has been spent - it is smart not to exacerbate the mistake by keeping him on the roster when we need to find a replacement. And please, please stop it about all the amazing come-from-behind victories - we would not have been behind in most of those if Jake could get the ball to anyone but Steve Smith, who can catch it if is within 20 yards of him.
The Panthers had to cut him. That 12.75 million comes out of Jerry's pocket, but doesn't count against the team and frees up a roster spot. THe Panthers needed to clean out some of the unproductive roster spots. Fowler you're wrong on this one.
I think it's obvious that the Panthers need to rebuild. That rebuilding started with the release of Delhomme, Peppers, and the defensive tackles. I also think Marshall will go somewhere else and the Panthers will get a draft pick for him. And I wouldn't be surprised if one of the running backs is traded for either a wide receiver or draft picks because no team needs four running backs on a roster.
I don't see this as a bad thing. They need to draft the future franchise QB (who is NOT named Tebow) and build around him.
Sorry every buddy, Scott is an extremely smart guy, he is better than Fox News, MSNBC and CNN all together, I mean who else would be wasting time watching, reading and righting comments about Scott's articles if they are not stupid and controversial enough to keep their rating up. So who is the real stupid idiot here? I will tell you as soon as I finish righting this.
WORDS: 93
CHARACTERS: 408
PARAGRAPHS: 7
SENTENCES: 3
P.S.
Scott if you are mistakenly reading this comment, I need a job and I do not have a problem working with you and Jake, thanks
Cesar Kluppel
Sorry every buddy, Scott is an extremely smart guy, he is better than Fox News, MSNBC and CNN all together, I mean who else would be wasting time watching, reading and righting comments about Scott's articles if they are not stupid and controversial enough to keep their rating up. So who is the real stupid idiot here? I will tell you as soon as I finish righting this.
WORDS: 93
CHARACTERS: 408
PARAGRAPHS: 7
SENTENCES: 3
P.S.
Scott if you are mistakenly reading this comment, I need a job and I do not have a problem working with you and Jake, thanks
Cesar Kluppel
Last season Steve Smith said he didn't really like Jake as a quarterback, a person - yes, but not as a quarterback. Jake had lost all locker room respect. He should not have come back to this team. It was undoubtedly the right decision. It was time for the team to move on, you should probably give it a shot as well Scott.
Scott, I have to disagree with you. As Zac said, Jake is what they call in economics "sunk costs." With the moves yesterday and with Peppers, I now think there may be hope for Hurney as a GM after all. All the moves were justified except Kemo - does anyone remember how truly awful our run defense was from the time Kemo got hurt until Hollis Thomas arrived?
The reason you drastically cut costs in an uncapped year is that you expect the cap to come back, and if it does, you will have since rid yourself of the albatross contracts like Jake's, and be in a position where you don't have to "rob Peter to pay Paul" every year.
The only problem I see with the course the Panthers are taking is that they must be assuming some of their RFAs are going to get signed away so we can get more draft picks. It's hard to build through the draft if you don't have many picks, and we don't have many this year.
I loved the "good Jake" years and will always remember the great 2003 season. But it's time to move on.
Scott, you are soooooooo wrong with your position! No insurance is worth what it would cost us in Jake's money paid. The way Carolina should go is to get Vick and let him play alternate Matt. The money would actually get some points on OUR side of the score board.
Jake Delhomme should burn in hell. LACES OUT!!!
Jake is receiving no credit for his good years. What I hear from the haters is "yeah - but the Super Bowl was 7 years ago!" Really? The last game of the 2008-2009, Jake SUCKED. But hmmm a 12-4 season - he sucked? And 2007 started well, good rating but injured - then how did the Panthers do? Last year - BAD games... but NO credit from the haters on anything he did right. Matt Moore played well so hope is there... But, I think they will miss his leadership and what you said - as a backup - would be NOBODY better - he knows the team & system. Good column!
Scott, this was a good move, and not a mistake. Somtimes you just have to take your lickin and keep on tikin. Do the Panthers still have to pay Jake 10 million? Yes, but now we can move on. If Jake would have taken the field as a starter, I would have watch the PBA on ESPN before I watched Jake throw another interception.
Another thing, how in the heck can you rip that Panther defense for not stopping Tom Brady. Lets not forget the following:
1)The defense had been on the field for most of the first half because Jake and the offense did not get a first down until late in the second quarter.
2)John Kasay gave Tom Brady a short field when he kicked the ball out of bounds on the kickoff, placing the ball on the 40. There was no wind, snow, or rain because the roof was closed. If anyone is to blame it is John Kasay.
3)SPYGATE. Not to be a conspiracy theorist, but when you have tapes of the opposing team, then you have an advantage. The NFL may say that the Patriots did not have an advantage, but how do we know that when we didn't see the tapes? The NFL did not want Congress to get involved, that is why they destoryed the tapes. The Patriots have not won anything since spygate.
Bottom line, Jake gone is good for the Panthers.
Scott, this was a good move, and not a mistake. Somtimes you just have to take your lickin and keep on tikin. Do the Panthers still have to pay Jake 10 million? Yes, but now we can move on. If Jake would have taken the field as a starter, I would have watch the PBA on ESPN before I watched Jake throw another interception.
Another thing, how in the heck can you rip that Panther defense for not stopping Tom Brady. Lets not forget the following:
1)The defense had been on the field for most of the first half because Jake and the offense did not get a first down until late in the second quarter.
2)John Kasay gave Tom Brady a short field when he kicked the ball out of bounds on the kickoff, placing the ball on the 40. There was no wind, snow, or rain because the roof was closed. If anyone is to blame it is John Kasay.
3)SPYGATE. Not to be a conspiracy theorist, but when you have tapes of the opposing team, then you have an advantage. The NFL may say that the Patriots did not have an advantage, but how do we know that when we didn't see the tapes? The NFL did not want Congress to get involved, that is why they destoryed the tapes. The Patriots have not won anything since spygate.
Bottom line, Jake gone is good for the Panthers.
Keeping Jake would send the wrong message to the rest of the players. The NFL is supposed to be a performance based league, and Jake's performance had become abysmal. If they keep him then maybe the other guys feel like they can under-perform with no consequences as well.
People here are commenting with their emotions because they don't like the way Jake played last year and the playoff game in 2008. Scott is right this time; however, Panthers didn't need to do this until NEXT SPRING!
This is not even close to Beuerlein's release. Beuerlein had a great passing season with no offensive line and was let go so an unproven and horrible Jeff Lewis could start. Moore is 7-2 as a starter. Delhomme was terrible... the worst starter in the league last year.
Foul-er, you are absolutely ridiculous. We've had nothing but heartbreak from Jake. Great, he won playoff games to eventually throw them away (PUN INTENDED). We have never had a powerhouse QB ever. So now we try and break down what Jake did positively. You all keep mentioning the blowup in Arizona to go to the Super Bowl. What about the blow up against Seattle to go to the Super Bowl? He was a great backup and he came in a did his best in his prime the year we went to the Super Bowl. It's all over now bud. Oh and that little group of "Jake haters" you mentioned......not so little. This will change the morale of our whole team. The players never wanted to say how they feel about him because of fear of losing their jobs of anyone of the higher ups heard that. Jake is to the Panther's organization as Wojo is to Coach K's balls. All over them. Eat it Scott! See you at the parade we are having because this old man with a bad arm is DONE!!!!!
Great article Scott, this is a DARK day for the Carolina Panthers, regardless of what the Jake haters think. Yes Jake had a terrible playoff game against Cardinals and a terrible season last year, but one bad season does not make his career over. I only hope he gets picked up, whatever team gets him will get a great leader. Matt Moore is NOT the answer, with Peppers and Kemoeatu gone and no draft picks my money is on the Panthers will not make the playoffs and this will be a TERRIBLE year for Panther fans. Wonderful article again Scott, your right on target, and I only wish Jake all the success in the world and thank him for all he did as a Panther!!!! Good luck Panthers...your gonnda need it. Daddy Don
Like others have said, this was done because of the no salary cap season next year Scott. You pay it all off when it doesn't matter this season so it's off the books for the future. It's really not that hard to figure that out. Also, Jake is done. He may be a great guy but that doesn't cut it in the NFL. You have to perform and he has not performed well in a few years now. And your theory that he started getting bad only in that AZ playoff game is a joke. He barely played well that year. D-Will and J-Stew tore the league up. Look at Jake's stats from that season. You don't think Moore could do the same? Get real man.
Scott, George Seifert cut Steve Beuerlein for Wienke, not Lewis.
As far handing the reigns over to Moore, I feel better about that than the fact the ENTIRE starting DL is gone. Peppers, Lewis, Kemo and Brayton. Brayton may be resigned, but that's it.
Scott....you obviously write your stories based off your Personal beliefs and morals...which in a way is good...but in other ways...is bad. Jake, by himself, lost the playoffs for us last year, and this year STUNK UP THE FIELD...!! What Panther games were you watching...??? He was HORRIBLE. They Fire black coaches for not winning fast enough faster than they got rid of Jake for all his on the field blunders.....LOL
Well...this one is complicated for sure.
For one thing, I keep hearing that Moore has been handed the keys...is that true? Maybe. Who's to say the Panthers aren't trying to clear some room to bring in someone else? Vick? I doubt it - never thought of JR as a Vick supporter. Then again, I never thought JR would cut Jake...
I too have been guilty of remembering the old Jake when justifying why he should still be around...but, fact is, that Jake on that Panther team is gone. The moments have passed. It's time to create some new ones.
Like it or not, this is the move...and I think the front office made a good sound business decision. There is no room for "yeah, but remember when he..." when you are trying to win a championship.
OK
We got the nogood white token QB Jake outta here.
Sign Vick.
We need Fox gone now and a new head coach.
Sign Dungy.
Slave days are over. Its a new time. Maybe Bob Johnson will buy the Panthers too.
Move on over.
Rashad H.
Scott you are completely right. That's the bottom line.
The only good thing about this though is that now all the "Jake Haters" can shut the hell up.
I'm sure you could find an article from last season where this same clown said we should get rid of Jake.
Either way, good move, good riddens... Maybe we won't draft a RB instead of a QB for once.
This is a tough business, but I think it's the right call. Maybe Jake can get a coaching gig later, his character and personality could still help the team. Nostalgia being what it is, I will always remember Boomer on ESPN bellowing "Daylight come and ya gotta Delhomme!"
The money lost is the cost of doing business in any major sports league. They made a bad investment. Happens in all business.
Relevant question now is can Jake's skill level help the Panthers? The experts, (who in addition to seeing game performance, see the day to day in practice, etc.) think Jake's time with the Panthers is through. Great guy, wish him the best, but don't think he can help us anymore.
Also, very rare that an ex-starter (who is never content in reduced role) positively impacts a team.
Scott,
Ordinarily I agree with most of your opinions about the Panthers, but this is one time I don't. Like you I've been watching this team since the very beginning and I think they had no choice but to give Delhomme his walking papers. Jake's played some very good football over the last near-decade but, as you once pointed out, something seemed to break inside the guy in that playoff game with Arizona and he never got it back. Certainly the team's decision was financial to some degree, but how could John Fox go to his players with a straight face and claim that Delhomme still had a shot at being the starter after last season? How could the team continue to pay out a fat contract to a guy who would now be holding the clipboard on Sundays? And what kind of "gold-plated insurance policy" is a quarterback who routinely tossed multiple momentum- and game-killing interceptions in his last year as the starter, over and over again? I'm sorry. I'm sure Jake is a nice guy and he has a place in team history as the guy who almost beat Tom Brady in the big game, but he never was very consistent, and when he lost his confidence or whatever happened last year he lost the team. Maybe Matt Moore isn't the answer, but ultimately the Panthers had to make this move.
I agree with you. BIG, BIG MISTAKE, HUGE, WHAT A LOSE! Richardson will never find another quaterback with as much heart and determination than Jake. He took us to the Superbowl, and did it with class and made a name for the Panthers. It's obvious that the problem is in the playbook. Predictability is a dead give away for the opponent to pick it off. Jake will be deeply missed by my family on game day. He deserves a big THANK YOU from the real fans, not the fair weather fans that point blame at one person. Football is a team sport not a one man show. Jake has always been accountable for his mistakes and never wanted to quit but took it for the team. To all the supporters of Vick, you are dreaming if you think he can turn the organization around. If Richardson brings Vick to the Panthers I will spend my money elsewhere. What has Vick done for the Falcons? He embarrassed his team, ruined his reputation and set a bad example for our children. Good Luck Jack, and I wish your family well on your next venture. Thanks for all the good you brought to the organization and great memories for my family.
Scott do not believe the people who agree with you. They can't see talent and that blind allegiance to Jake Delhomme is second only to the blind allegiance that voters sometime have for their failing politicians. Everyone who would allow themselves to see it knew Jake was finished, over, done, cooked. Of course that excludes you. If Matt Moore's stats didn't speak loudly and clearly to you and the Delhomme crowd nothing will. Thank God they didn't consult you because I see the reason you sit behind a desk writing stuff like this article and not in the front office of a NFL team. Here's something that will help you as a sports writer. Lies never figure and figures never lie. The stats from the playoffs last year until Jake went out this season clearly shows Matt Moore should be the QB not Jake. Maybe another stat is showing that you can't see, its time to move on from the sports desk, however you can stay because bad articles like this do not harm the team and you actually have people who agree with you today who will be talking about how good Matt is for the team when the season starts. Wow, why did I read your column?
Scott what wrong after a statement like that "Releasing Jake was a big mistake" I don't think you should give an more advise in the sports world and I want be reading your column any more. How can you possible make a statement like that Jake is 35 years old with a long record of interceptions, would you invest another million in him of your money of course not that is why you are making this statement because its not your money. The panthers made the right decision it should have been done long time ago. I am not a Delhomme hater I am a football fan female who wants to win. It's not personal its business.
Scott your sentiment is good but your judgment is horribly flawed. Jake D. would have been a distraction as well as financial burden. Clearly you should not be directly involved with a team's personnel decisions because your mindset shows that you are sick. Flat out Jake was HORRIBLE. Why would you want him on the team wating everytime Moore makes a mistake. You are SOOOOOOOOOOO! wrong here. Maybe by now you actually know it.
god in heaven please get rid of this stupit head coache named Fox too. african americans needed for quarterback and coach for in the NFL..
Tyrone Willingham or Dewayne Walker will to come to chrlotte right now and be head coach.
Scott, I have NEVER seen this many posts on an article. I agree with 95% of real Panther fans. He had to go. Let's start the future now. Backup? Why? we have seen what he is capable of. Since his surgery his arm strenght is gone. That is a fact. Ask any corner and he will tell you. They know they can break on routes late and still get there in time to intercept or break up a pass. Moore is green but his arm strenght showed that the receivers ARE OPEN and how bad Jake was/is. Until the AZ game I was on Jake's wagon. That was after a mediocre year in 2008. 2009 was abysmal and his play alone cost is the playoffs. Jake a good man but a terrible QB. I wish him well and hope he does commentary in Charlotte. He respented us well and while he is a good teammate his days as a decent QB are over. Get a backup in here that still has arm strenght.
Scott, I really thought you would support this move since you were calling for Moore all season long in the midst of Jake's struggles. Then the kid goes 4-1 with only 2 INTs and suddenly your moral compass questions the loyalty of the organization after they release Delhomme. Apparently there's some flip-flopping reminiscent of John Kerry going on at the Observer. I'm not a "Jake hater" so don't get me confused, but I agree with what the Panthers did. Jake has given us great memories and has done great things for this team that we as fans never thought possible, especially after 2001. It's simply time for the team to move in a new direction. Not to mention, a $10 million bonus is quite steep for the role of a locker room leader, even an insurance policy, really. I'm also not too sure that the Panthers won't make some moves to bring in someone to compete with Moore for the starting spot.
This is about more than just cutting Jake Delhomme as a person. The players need something to rally around and the fact that ownership is showing that they are willing to finally start making some moves should be enough to motiviate. I was a big Jake fan but let's face it, he lost the respect of the locker room beginning with the Arizona game. Maybe not the respect, but the heart. I think the players realized last year that he may be done but management decided to be stubborn and continue playing him. It's like at your job when you have someone who doesn't deserve to be there in a senior position just because they've been around for a long time. It's not about loyalty, it's about producing. Matt Moore may not get it done but at lease we know with 100% certainty that we're going to figure it out this year and not have the worry that Fox would throw Jake in at the first sight of Moore stinking it up.
http://news14sports.blogspot.com/
I think they had to release him so our coach wouldn't start him.
VICK VICK VICK VICK ...
come on white boy. get off moore.
Hey Scott,
Been following your blog's for a while and do find them interesting and surrounding disputable and argumentative discussions. however, this one i believe was a little crossing the line.
I'm new to the area but have been well known to the Panthers and Delhomme era. Panthers have been very lojal and keeping the good "folk's" in the group due to excellent leadership. However the team have to perform and excel based on last season (although i agree that one bad season does not tell the whole story). That you argue that the team loyalty goes out the door when Jake was kicked out is completely wrong. I'm not a Jake fan, nor am i a Jake hater. The team does need some new, fresh, talent and blood. I'm not a Peppers fan, i have met him in person and feel he is a stuck up brat who think he's better than everyone else (yes, he's darn good at what he does). Rather than looking negatively at the future, lets get some excited that some brand new opportunities are in front of us!
he was not wroth 13 million he threw pick after pick and Moore is just as good as some of the rest of the QB's in the league he just needs so more games under his belt so they can get someone that is OK for a backup but you just look when Jake went down last season Matt toke over and he lead them to only one loss and made them .500 so i think that it was smart who has a 13 million back up quarterback so it was really smart
No Scott, resigning Jake to an extension was the BIG mistake and this decision signifies the Panthers admitting it...
Guys - give it a rest. This is called "editor's choice" - whereby the paper needs someone to write the controversial article in order to get people to go to the site and post like crazy. Thus upping hits and thus increasing the marketability of the paper to advertisers.
Who knows what Scott really thinks? It's a business...
OK, Jake Haters, you got your wish and now we'll see what happens when the season begins. Good luck, Jake, it's been a great ride. I am sure you will find your thoroughbreds much more loyal than the ding bats in Carolina!
Scott,
Love the article. You are so right. I am glad someone in Charlotte can speak up for the guy!
"Fans" in Charlotte are quick to forget what Jake brought to the Panthers. Jake is a stand up, class act guy that deserves to be respected for his accomplishments. The Panthers won't be the same without him. I wish more of our fans had some class and could appreciate Jake for all he has done for our home team.
Nope, Jake had to go if you were going to see what Matt Moore can do. If not, every time Matt fumbled or threw an interception people would scream for Jake. It's the nature of fans.
Plus if the organization is going to finally entrust the team to Matt they had to make that statement "YOU ARE OUR GUY" Having Jake linger would have sent the message "You are our guy... until you mess up"
I like Jake a lot, but he had to go for the team to move forward.
This is why there are people who run a football team and there are people who write stories about running a football team. If those who were writing stories about running a football team were any good at running it, they wouldn't be writing stories about it.
Oh, and the Steve Beuerlein comparison doesn't help your case.
For Carolina, Beuerlein was 3-1, 1-2, 4-8, 8-8, 7-9 then cut. He was out of football for 2001 then signed with Denver where he had a 1-2 and 1-1 record... then retired.
Steve Beuerlein NEVER had a winning record as a QB.
No need to bash Scott but i believe it's time for Delhomme to go. He's a great guy in person but his qb AND leadership skills have declined. Delhomme is not a leader and never was. We were lucky to squeeze thru to a Superbowl with him but Matt Moore woul have taken us last year. Good luck Jake.
Since we still have to pay for Jake then yes, we should have kept him for a backup. Though he'd been stinking it up for us last year and the end of the prior year and should not be starting, we should have kept him for mentoring and an experienced backup. He may not possess the game to be a really good quarterback any more but he certainly knows what makes a good quarterback and that could have been leveraged. Go Matt! You deserve the starting position.
Jake was to be due a roster bonus of over $10 Million on March 15 (as least according to the Observer main article). Regardless of the salary cap issue, there are 10 Million reasons to cut Jake at this point (given that he was unlikely to remain the starter).
Here is my guess . . .
If Jake does not get picked up by another team and clears waivers, my bet is that the Panthers re-sign him to mentor Matt and any QB they draft. This would be a great role for Jake at this point in his career, and he is still going to make a boat load of money from the Panthers. [And honestly, who is going to sign Jake to be a starter? No one.]
Scott, your thoughts?
JD is at best a journeyman quarterback who can only be effective in the right system, up to a level of mediocrity. Best to cut losses now. I just hope he doesn't end up in Miami playing for my Dolphins, although I think Chad Henne can easily beat him out for the starting job.
I'm glad they canned Delomme. He has had too many bad seasons. If Delomne would not have been started so often, the Panthers's may have gone to the play offs. The Panther's stadiom was built for a winning team; not one that looses.
While I believe that Moore should be the starting quarterback next season, the Panthers could've kept Jake on the bench. He would've been a good backup and could've helped Moore adjust to becoming the leader of the offense. In the end I'm glad they cut him, because whenever Moore would look shaky, they would probably put Delhomme in, and then our winning chances would be very slim.
Wow Scott. Sorry you wrote that yet?
You are quickly becoming another hack reporter on the staff Scott. That is sad because I used to enjoy your posts. I guess you are not that different than Tom after all.
Cut him was the right thing to do. Eveyone gets caught up in the few games he won. Thank goodness for the WR's and TE's that had great hands because he has never thrown a good ball. He has never finished higher than 12th in Pass. Eff. He was not that good in 2008. Terrible in 2009...it just goes on and on...
Jake sucks! Never should of resigned him last year. Now they are just showing us that they admit they made a mistake last year!! Geez
Scott,
Have you ever heard of revisionist history? Because that, at best, is what this article is.
You make it sound as though "Jake haters" are the only ones that can like this move. First off, I despise that term. It was created by the people that became 'fans' of the team only after Jake came to Charlotte.
Secondly, if being a fan of the team more than any individual player makes me a "hater" of that individual, then I guess I hate every player on the roster.
You act as though Jake has always been some great QB. You put over his game winning drives, but what about the games he lost us?
Two straight years in Atlanta he threw INT's in OT that cost us games.
In 2008, he was marginal at best and the sole reason that the Raiders and Lions were in the games last against us.
You mention the defense not being able to stop the Patriots offense as the reason for the Super Bowl loss, but what about early in the game when the defense was stopping the Patriots offense while Jake and the offense weren't scoring?
It cuts both ways Scott.
You also are totally ignoring the fact that he's a 35 year old QB who himself is in uncharted waters being 2 years removed from Tommy John surgery.
I've taken up for you with my friends in the past Scott, but on this one, I think I'll be content to let them call you a clown.
I loved Jake but it was time. Why have a QB decision to make in training camp? Why have a backup QB making more then the starter? It would be too easy to switch to Jake if Moore made any mistakes. It was the right move at the right time for the right reasons. Thanks for your articles Scott.
Scott you are one of the "Koolaid drinkers" that just can't relize JAKE WAS DONE IN the playoff game vs ARZ and backed it up in wk 1 vs Philly being sentimental with old players gets you OUT of the playoffs...and you clear the image out of Moore's mind about being constantly judged against Jake and with a young QB CONFIDENCE is everything knowing it's HIS job FINALLY
Scott you are one of the "Koolaid drinkers" that just can't relize JAKE WAS DONE IN the playoff game vs ARZ and backed it up in wk 1 vs Philly being sentimental with old players gets you OUT of the playoffs...and you clear the image out of Moore's mind about being constantly judged against Jake and with a young QB CONFIDENCE is everything knowing it's HIS job FINALLY
The real consideration is whether Jake is worth the bonus or not. Based on his recent performance the answer has to be not. I am no Jake hater, but he tries to make the spectacular play far too often without having the physical skills to pull it off. Wound up hurting the team in far too many games. Intangibles aside, he isn't worth another 10MM.
Scott, I can't believe I'm saying this after watching Jake throw 18 INTs last season but I actually agree with you. I've been one of the many fans calling for Jake's release but now regret that stance. Now, not only are we left with an undertalented and inexperienced quarterback but we've also lost our locker-room leader, a proven winner, and committed member of the franchise and the city. I think good things are ahead for the Panthers eventually, but watching Jake leave ought to summon more remorse than joy from our fans.
So, if I'm justifiably critical of a quarterback whose decision-making went downhill fast with all evidence that he almost single-handedly lost very important games, then I'm classified and dismissed as a "Jake-hater." Great.
I expect reactionary bs from posters like me, and sound reasonableness from "professionals" like you, given that you're not a radio talk show that generates controversy for ratings.
You and Fox need to go get a beer with your friend Jake, because he came to end of the road, perhaps too soon, but how many seasons do we sacrifice in addition to last year for the sake of sentimentality.
On another note...it's not either/or for most thoughtful GMs, and there are likely QB candidates out there we should be scouting.
From Pat Yasinskas ESPN blog:
"Scott Fowler writes that Carolina releasing Jake Delhomme was a big mistake. Fowler was my co-worker for nearly nine years and he remains a good friend, but I’m going to have to respectfully disagree with my friend here. As much as I respect Delhomme, this was a move that had to be made. Delhomme’s performance last year was so disastrous that the Panthers truly could not bring him back, even as a backup."
Scott,
For once in a great while, I agree with you.
Peace.
Any chance there's a young writer that wants to challenge Scott for his position?
Where's the story here? Why did this happen, what to the parties involved think and why?
Get the story Fowler, don't just sit around and tell us what you think about the news. You're like the Delhomme of sports journalism.
Coming from a Steeler fan who lives in Charlotte...Jake is currently laughing all the way to the bank!! I went to the NFC Championship game against the Cardinals and personally watched jake lose that game by himself! Since that loss he has been terrible. Let him go, let Matt Moore take the blame this year. You're biggest problem this year is gonna be the defense! Bill Cowher will be Coaching you guys by2012 anyways!! Stay strong panther Faithful!!
Always loved reading Scotts opinions (for the laughter) but I guess I will stop reading them as I am tired of laughing at the clueless.The guy is clueless and he gets paid to write this tripe? Jake never should have gotten the extension. He SHOULD be gone as he is not even a good 3rd option. His glory days are gone. he no longer has it. He even admitted he lost his confidence! That is the WORST thing for any qb. But here Scott says he shouldnt start but shouldnt have been cut?Why pay a kings ransom to a QB who is not even a solid 3rd option? get a new Job Fowler. I cant believe you get paid for this tripe.
I've been a fan of Jake through both good times and bad - but I don't have a problem with this move by the Panthers. Yes, the organization is on the hook for a bunch of money. Sure, he would have been a capable backup to Matt Moore - but would that have been really what Jake wanted after being the starter for 7 seasons? What I like most about this move is that it eliminates any possibility of a quarterback controversy. Critics can argue that by keeping Jake, at least the team knows what they have - but do they, really? As unpredictable as he has been? It clearly says that the Panthers will be committed to starting Matt Moore this season, and he won't have to check his rearview wondering how long it'll be till Jake takes the spot back over again. The Panthers are turning the page. (And like it or not, that applies to Julius Peppers, too.) Enough said.
You have to consider the impact of a divided locker room. If you've got vets in the locker room wed to Jake, think about the potential chaos.
Can't believe this is something you wouldn't consider...
Matt Moore can't hold a candle to Jake when it comes to leadership, and at some point, when things aren't going so well, he will be tested in that department. Jake consistently showed fire and grit, and that passion counts for a lot. When the Panthers no longer had the "heart" of Brentsen Buckner in the locker room on the defensive side of the ball, the defensive play went to hell until Beason showed up - as a rookie! - and became a leader. I'm watching the free agency reports on the NFL Network and while we're bleeding talent, other teams are snapping it up. The Panthers got the bargain of a lifetime when they picked up Jake (even though they didn't realize it at the time), a true diamond in the rough. They continue to shop in the discount section in the hopes they can replicate that delightful surprise. Sorry, but Jake is one of a kind and we're not likely to get that lucky again. Matt Moore is no Jake, and he should thank his lucky stars that he won't have to compete with Jake to keep his job.
After the horrible season Jake left here in Carolina, I think the only natural thing to do was let him go. Probably should have been done long before now...
As for Matt Moore being the starting QB...hmm. I think not.
Perhaps the management have other ideas... drafting a certain QB from Florida??? I think this is a much more likely scenario.
Scott have you seen Jake play football starting with and since the Arizona game last year?
I have to agree, Scott. I wish the fans would show some loyalty too. But in all honesty, he wasn't performing. We DO need to draft or, I would prefer, get someone through free agency. But that's doubtful b/c it looks like Mr. Richardson is going on the cheap.
Great column Scott. Jake should have been kept to mentor Matt.
I don't know why anyone would have a problem believing that Matt Moore can be a great QB. The only reason he didn't get a chance sooner is because Foxy and Hurnia were so in love with Jake. (Jake is a loveable guy, no doubt.) Why on God's green Earth would you want to have a backup that will throw to the other team's CBs every freakin time he gets his hands on the ball? Face it, Jake is sweet, but he's no longer QB material.
LOL I'm so thankful that the Panthers organization is not run by the fans, or the Sports Writers, for that matter.
Scott, I like most of your stuff (including your book "Tales From The Carolina Panthers Sideline"), but the reason that Matt Moore didn't get into the scene sooner is because Fox was clearly deeply connected to Delhomme. You seem to infer that it was because the management team didn't trust Matt. I don't like this kind of guessing from a writer, whom so many people rely upon for what they think are actual facts.
Scott, overall, great commentary. That last paragraph however was too over the top
Well Scott let me chime in for a moment! First Jeff Davidson an off cord..are you kidding..he is horrible and has no experience prior to Carolina Panthers..I am guilty thinking Dan Henning was our coordinator problem..I was wrong..ITS JOHN FOX..he is a great person and even better defensive coordinator. However he is a horrible Head Coach! You have to take RISK! He is a Mother Teresa type Coach! Last season even with D.McNabb and M Vick on the roster the Eagles had a little scare with McNabb. What do winning teams do? They added Jeff Garcia as a 3rd QB! When Garcia was out of work we should have put him on our team! He is a wonderful Vet at that position. He still would be an asset to us! Then lets see the wide receiver that we just let slip to the Ravens. A Bolen is a guy that could have made a big impact for us helping Steve Smith. Smitty deserves some help. I like Jake, however he was always a 7 at best at his position. We made the problem buy giving him the big contract when it was not warranted! He lost the QB coach that helped develop him to the Bronco's. Now look what Kyle Orton did. he at least became a worthy QB. Kyle made a lot of improvement from where he was. Jake had grit and was excitable played behind HORRIBLE play calling! Now he would make a mistake then TRY TO MAKE IT UP and just make it worse..Most of the blame is his,however thats where a good coach would take him aside a tell him forget the last play DO NOT TRY to make it up...Just play your game.
Another problem..When is the Last time you saw a PANTHER on the side line get fired up a call the guys in and act like a Ray Lewis?? Answer NEVER!!! Be accountable for you WHOLE squad guys!! Drew Breeses fires hid guys up before and during the game!! Be a winner!! Tom Brady! This type of player make adjustments when needed..WE NEVER DO!Common Sense stuff! Jon Beason, Smitty and Thomas Davis are ones who can step up on the side lines because of their play between the lines! I can write a book about EASY fixes for this TEAM! Get me an EAR!! BIG CAT I know you have a bad Heart but LOSING will make it worse!! GET IN THE GAME! Jerry you are a WINNER..Please get BACK INVOLVED with your TEAM or LOSE US! The Fans!! A banker that sits at a desk all the time and has a regular family goes to a Panther game but cannot take off his shirt and get FIRED up for his TEAM!! Are you serious!! get a Big Family section and use the FANS BETTER to WIN more Games!! Lots of fans have told me we do not have 50 or 80 yrs of roots..So we need all the advantage we can get!! Even if we win 10 games a year and win a Super Bowl..Charlotte will always have fans for the Skins,Cowboys,Steelers,Green Bay, Vikings etc..This city had to pull for other teams until 15 yrs ago..Then because it is a great city lots of transplants live here. We have to overcome and adapt to be a True winner and regular contender! I can put together the same info on the Hornets/Bobcats! We DO NOT KNOW HOW TO Manage or WIN! When we lost Polian we have never recovered! Until the next entry...Rod
wow. never moved to make a comment before and love your work. but "gold plated insurance"? what in the world???
Jake was awful last year and Moore was very good. The only thing that matters in the NFL is what you do on the filed not what you did in the past.
This was a simple move. I can't believe you don't see that.
Scott, I do agree with you to certain extend.But, the Panthers should have renegotiated his contract, and I guarantee you Jake would have agree to whatever term they are going to come up with including a big time cut of his money. He knew that he screwed up big last season and looking for redemption. Beside, he will be a dorn good back up for moore.
Fowler, I have been busy celebrating all day. When I heard the news I went down to the local Bojangles and told them to "show me the chicken". I figured somebody had to do it. I felt so good that I bought dirty rice for everybody in the place. I thought about getting chicken for everyone, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it because all they had left was the "Cajun" recipe. That would have been just too painful. I didn't want to get choked up like John Fox. But when I finally got home I read what you had to say about this move being a big mistake. I was all set to let you have it. Statement after statement began to form in my head. And then I started reading what the other posters said to you regarding this situation. I read over one hundred and thirty comments. By the time I finished I was convinced that there was nothing left for me to say. In fact instead of wanting to bash you I felt sorry for you. It's got to be against the law for that many people to beat one man the way all those people beat you. Amazing!
I will certainly be rooting for any team that plays the Panthers from now on. I guess the next move will be to get rid of Steve Smith and then D'Angelo Williams......
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