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During Sunday's press conference, Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart called rookie fullback Lee Ward a "Punisher". Ward likes that description. "That's a huge compliment, especially coming from that guy" Ward told me after practice. "He is an absolute monster and I expect huge things from him this year." During Monday's practice, Ward began to showcase why Jonathan Stewart classified him in that unique way. Ward, in charge of protecting his quarterback, stifled linebacker Adarius Glanton for the duration of the play. Glanton appeared not to have taken too kindly to Ward's tenacity and got in a little extra curricular activity, knocking his helmet off after the whistle. I asked Ward if he had lost his helmet and had a busted chin before. "It's something that has happened my whole career. I've busted my chin too many times to count at this point. They say the ladies like scars, so I guess it is only a good thing, right?" On the very next play, Ward picked up his protection assignment again, this time linebacker stopping Jason Trusnik in his tracks. The result was much the same, namely proper protection and enough time for Derek Anderson to make a good read and throw. Ward does not seem to be too concerned about any ramifications from defensive players not accustomed to being stopped by a rookie. "I just try to get them on the play and do the best I can. I'm not really worried about the extra curricular stuff. The veterans don't appreciate a rookie coming and hitting them in the mouth, but I am trying to make this team just like they are." Ward appears to have the right mind set required for any rookie, especially an undrafted one, to make a NFL team. If he can keep impressing like he did today he could very possibly make the Panthers practice squad or even regular roster. View full article

For fans of smash mouth football, the demise of the punishing NFL fullback has had a negative impact on maximum game enjoyment. Gone are the days of a 250lb work horse demolishing a linebacker as he paves the way to the end zone. Yes, I miss the blocking fullback. If you would frequently find yourself zoning in on a crushing block instead of the ball crossing the goal line, you probably miss them too. It seems we are not alone... View full article

If you are like me and love a power running game, you should be excited about Carolina Panthers rookie fullback Lee Ward out of Stanford. Listed at 5'11 and 246 pounds, Ward earned an offseason contract and camp invitation by impressing the coaching staff at this year's rookie camp. "A bruising, blocking fullback. Someone that opens up running lanes. A road grader." That is how Lee Ward described himself to me after practice recently. "It's enjoyable. I have no problem blocking .... Read the Full Article

Carolina Panthers sign Stanford fullback Lee Ward. Ward is listed on the Panthers roster as being 5'11 246lbs. I noticed him today during one on one pass drills where he looked pretty good catching balls out of the backfield. With Mike Tolbert's roster shot not being a sure thing this season and Richie Brockel being hurt last season, Ward could have an opportunity to showcase his skills and make a case for himself.