Did the Carolina Panthers overpay for Charles Johnson?: Fan’s perspective

The Carolina Panthers know a thing or two about losing top-notch defensive ends. After watching Julius Peppers(notes) eventually fly the coop to Chicago, they seemed rather determined to not let their latest breakout star get away. Carolina signed defensive end Charles Johnson to a six-year contract worth $72 million with $30 million in a signing bonus. Some are saying the Panthers paid way too much for Johnson. Having been a Carolina Panthers fan my entire life, I am thrilled to see owner Jerry Richardson spend a little money. It gives me hope that we might actually even get a decent wide receiver here in Carolina to go along with Steve Smith. That is, of course, assuming he stays in Charlotte. As for Charles Johnson(notes), I am glad to see him in the fold.

When it comes to defense, the Panthers put a very high premium on athletic defensive ends. Right now, they have Johnson, Greg Hardy, Everette Brown and Tyler Brayton on the roster. If no changes are made, that would be a decent rotation that should excel with our upgrades at the defensive tackle position. Last year they did well even with virtually no help inside. Imagine what they might do with some defensive tackles plugging up the middle and drawing occasional blockers.

The only thing I dislike about the Panthers paying so much for Johnson is the huge signing bonus. Signing bonuses like that makes players lazy from what I have seen. The best thing about Charles Johnson is his nonstop motor and the last thing the Panthers need is for him to suddenly start taking plays off. I do not think that is in his nature from what I see in practice and games. His teammates say nothing but great things about him as well.

The best thing about paying Charles Johnson all that money and wrapping him up for six years is that the Atlanta Falcons really wanted him. Now, the Falcons are forced to overpay for someone that is not worth it to fill the spot or stand pat. Either way, the advantage swings to the Panthers. Anytime we can stick it to those Dirty Birds it is a good day in Charlotte.

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