Panthers match offensive lineman's free agent offer
By "Bucky Katz"

Off-Season 2122 (Charlotte) - The Carolina Panthers announced that they have matched a free agent offer to Guard JJ Rowen from the New York football Giants, paying him at $77.5 million over the next five years. Not bad for a guy picked up for a third round pick a few seasons ago.

'Joe is always trying to take our guys away from us,' Panthers GM 'Trader' Lee Remley kidded at the press conference to announce the signing. 'But this guy was a big part of the line protecting our franchise quarterback.'

'We are a big believer in Carolina that it starts up front,' Remley continued. 'JJ's as good as they come, so we are thrilled to have him here a few more years.'

The Panthers have invested a lot in 3/5ths of their offensive front. As a team that is a big believer in the running game and protecting the passer, though, that is to be expected.

The acquistions of Gary Campbell and Aaron Miller on the defensive line look to upgrade that side of the ball also. Both are known for their speed, which the Panthers defensive coaches covet.

Time will tell if these acquisitions make the difference for a team hoping to visit the playoffs once more.