When Jon Beason tore his Achilles tendon in the Panthers opening game, the Carolina nation had to panic. Beason, a MLB, was coming off a season in which he had 121 tackles, 8 passes defended and 2 forced fumbles. Over the last four years, Beason had been the glue that held the Panthers defense together by routinely averaging over 130 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 6 passes defended. His veteran leadership and ability to be around the ball were a vital factor to new head coach, Ron Rivera’s defensive plans.
Tapped to replace the veteran leadership and unstoppable drive of Beason will be fourth year linebacker Dan Connor. Last year, Connor started eight games and showed some promise with 47 tackles. When he has played the middle, the former Nittany Lion has shown that he can make plays. However, the question comes in the passing game. Connor must be able to become a force in the underneath or dump off passes that Beason has controlled, at times, during his career. If he is able to make this adjustment Carolina could make the transition appear seamless. If he cannot or is himself injured then the Panthers will be in trouble for sure.