Trades galore in Carolina as Panthers look to make the last step
By "Aki Kurikawa"

Off-Season 2330 (Charlotte) - There's something happening here,
but what it is, ain't exactly clear.
There's a man with a gun of an arm over there,
saying the league, they better beware.

OK, so this reporter has been listening to oldies. Sue me.

The Carolina Panthers and their fans were tired of the denizens of the land of Poe being deliverers of woe, so the legendary Trader took action.

The first deal brought them three franchise players for now and the future, as all were young and in their prime. Pancake OL AJ Jackson and Brian Roper and LB Steve Faris came in the first deal in exchange for a bevy of draft picks the next several seasons. The cost was high, but the team felt it was worth it to have a shot at a few Sundbys.

Make no mistake, that's the goal. Nothing lesser will do.

The second deal brought some veteran role players. HB AJ Anderson, who will play FB here and add more blocking for their young QB Steve Walker. WR Mel Miles, who adds another target. Finally, CB Damon Keyworth, who will switch to safety here and give them two hard hitting safeties to bring the pain. Gone are stalwarts G David Niles and LB Darryl Rhodes, but their positions were taken by the new arrivals.

The Panthers GM 'Trader' Lee Remley remains in seclusion, apparently still working the phone and talking trade. It seems odd that the team's GM has not made a comment in one of his periodic news conferences after trades.

At any rate, we will see what happens as we approach free agency and the trade deadline. One thing this reporter can say, covering this team is never boring.