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SportingNews.com - NFL - Panthers Team Report

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RB DeShaun Foster has been doing a good job of holding off DeAngelo Williams for the starting job. Foster might be in a system where he has a chance to succeed for the first time in his career as the team switches from a power running game to a zone-blocking scheme. Foster wasn't ever able to do much as a between-the-tackles runner, but he's showing signs he can flourish in the new scheme. He's been making some nice cutbacks and has shown signs he can turn the corner on outside runs. Williams will get a fair amount of carries, but Foster may be able to hold onto the starting role. ...

Rookie Ryne Robinson was mainly a punt returner in college, but the team will ask him to add kickoff returns to his duties. Robinson has excellent speed and good vision. He also can play wide receiver, but the team wants him to focus almost entirely on return duties this year. ...

Stanley McClover has emerged as the favorite to be the third defensive end. McClover has the speed to be an effective pass rusher. He added some bulk in the offseason and is showing signs he can play the run. He'll need to because the team wants to use McClover to help keep veteran starter Mike Rucker fresh.

NEWCOMER REPORT: S Deke Cooper was with the team in 2002 before doing stints as a backup in Jacksonville and San Francisco. With the retirement of Mike Minter, Cooper suddenly became the most experienced safety on the roster and he has a chance to win the starting free safety position. Cooper didn't need a refresher course on the defensive system and he's having a solid camp. He also has experience at strong safety and is a good tackler. But Cooper needs to show he can hold up in deep coverage and make some plays on balls in the preseason to earn the starting job.

SCOUTING REPORT: The team is making a very smart move by limiting the practice time of WR Steve Smith in camp. Smith is a fantastic competitor and is always in high gear. Giving him frequent days off will help prevent Smith from wearing down in the regular season. That's hugely significant because Smith is the team's only established receiving threat, and defenses will be throwing lots of coverage at him. After the release of veteran Keyshawn Johnson, Smith will have to carry a heavy load as rookie Dwayne Jarrett gets comfortable.

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