Legedu Naanee News

Ron Rivera will be all smiles if Carolina can win 11 games in 2012. But how can that happen? Streeter Lecka/Getty Images The Carolina Panthers finished 6-10 last year, but it was one of the most surprisingly optimistic 6-10 seasons in recent memory.

One of the best things about the Carolina Panthers since Ron Rivera became head coach is the forthright nature by which he addresses the media, and fans.

It seems like a good time to look at some of the best position battles that will play out over the coming weeks, although most likely won't be decided until training camp.

Apr 27, 2012; Charlotte, NC, USA Carolina Panthers first round draft pick Luke Kuechly talks with the media during a press conference at Bank of America Stadium.

Panther fans are expecting big things from their team this upcoming season and rightfully so.

FYI...By Friday morning, the Panthers will have welcomed over 45 new faces to Panther nation, but fans should be prepared to say goodbye to over half of them by the end of the weekend.

The Carolina Panthers , who at 6-10 in 2011 improved their record by four wins over the previous season, are an NFL team on the rise and they will improve their record by the same margin in 2012.

Happy Monday Panther faithful, and welcome to the first MMO since the season ended.

Panthers' defensive end Charles Johnson underwent arthroscopic surgery Friday to relieve swelling in his right knee, general manager Marty Hurney said.

Released by the Texans on Tuesday, Jones spent Thursday checking out a potential landing spot .

With the draft over and a rookie minicamp scheduled for next weekend, figured it was time to post the first projected depth chart for the Panthers.