2016 NFL Power Rankings: Chasing The West Divisions

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Aug 11, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) before a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 87. They have the reigning MVP in Cam Newton who is in his prime and one of the best defensive front sevens in football. So yeah the Carolina Panthers should be expected this high on the list. After all they did finish 15-1 last season. The question on the minds of everybody is how much will the loss of All-Pro cornerback Josh Norman hurt them on the defensive side and can Newton duplicate what he did last year? <p>Carolina drafted three cornerbacks a few months ago, so it’s clear they’re determined to make sure the secondary isn’t overly depleted without Norman. As for Newton, he’s getting an enormous boost with the return of gigantic receiver Kelvin Benjamin. If he is at a similar form he was prior to his knee injury, this Panthers offense might be even better than the one that dominated much of last season. Super Bowl hangovers are tough, but not invincible.</p>. . . Carolina Panthers . 3

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