Carolina's Answer at OLB

Yesterday the Carolina Panthers released 5 players, most notably being long-time Quarterback Jake Delhomme, but Carolina also released 2 Outside Linebackers (Na’il Diggs and Landon Johnson). This leaves a hole at one of the starting OLB positions, which was previously occupied by Na’il Diggs. Now, the obvious thing to think is that this is part of the ‘youth movement’, and well, him just not being very productive. This now brings up the question of who’s going to fill the void at that position? The Panthers are almost certain to draft a WR with their 2nd round pick, but they could use their 3rd round pick on an OLB. I, however, think they could (and should) go in a different direction.

    Michael D. Smith reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to release OLB Will Witherspoon. Witherspoon, who was dealt to Philly from the Rams in exchange for Brandon Gibson and a 5th round pick midseason last year, played well in Philadelphia, recording over 50 tackles, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble in 11 games. Will Witherspoon was drafted 73rd overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2002 NFL Draft, and excelled under John Fox’s system in his 4 seasons with the team. This is why Will Witherspoon, in my opinion, would be a fantastic addition for the Carolina Panthers. We need an OLB, and just as we do, a former Panther who knows the system arises. There would be no learning curve for him and he can come in and make an immediate impact. He is still only 29 years old, as well, and there is no denying Will would be a vast improvement over Diggs.

What are your thoughts on bringing Will back to Charlotte?

Source: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/03/05/eagles-will-release-will-witherspoon/