Today Beast was on '32 in 32' to check in from Charlotte and talk to the NFL Network. As expected, Beason was awesome. You can find the video here- but if you're unable to watch, here are the key points he hit on.

The last few weeks are the first times Beason has had a chance to practice against Cam Newton

It's crazy to think, but it's true. This time last year Beason was sidelined as a precautionary measure to preserve his Achilles, and at that time Cam wasn't taking first team reps anyway. This should be an excellent test for both Beason and Newton to work against each other.

He acknowledged that the defense struggled in 2011

Stopping short from giving excuses, Beason discussed how the defense has been the staple in Carolina for the last few years. He discussed the injury issues the defense faced, but singled out the lack of three-and-outs that will need to be improved in 2012

More after the jump

Beason was respectful over Alex Smith

The issue came up again, but Beason handled it like a pro. He echoed what we've all said- Smith wasn't wrong, per se, but he had to business bringing up another player as his example.

He thinks the Saints should pony up and pay Drew Brees

Again, no surprises, but Beason pulled no punches saying that in his opinion the Saints wouldn't even be in New Orleans anymore if it wasn't for Brees. At first this seems like hyperbole, but if you remember Tom Benson was already organizing an exploratory team to determine whether Oklahoma City was a viable football market to move the team. Ultimately it was Hurricane Katrina and Drew Brees turning around the franchise that stopped the Saints moving.

The overall tone of Beason's interview reeked confidence. There's a healthy swagger surrounding this organization right now that leads to big things. If the Panthers can walk the razor thin line where they remain confident and disciplined it could be a very exciting year.