Do we have the best 8-man core in the NFL?

[KillaCamNewton]

I still can never get my head across the narrative that we're an overacheiving team that's winning in spite of a lack of talent. If you look at what many would consider our "core" players, there aren't many teams I would trade with. The Broncos with all their stars on defense and their stud receivers are in the discussion, but at this point Peyton is a liability. You could make a case for the Bengals and Seahawks, but look at the level our guys are playing at:

 

Cam Newton: one of two or three MVP candidates this year

Stewart: 6th in rushing yards this season, you could certainly replace him with KB when healthy if you choose

Olsen: consensus top 5 tight end

Kalil: consensus best or 2nd best center

Short: looks like a lock for Pro Bowl. Only DT outplaying him this year is Donald out of St. Louis

Luke: consensus best MLB in the NFL

TD: consensus best 4-3 OLB in the NFL

Norman: getting alot of praise as the best CB in the league this year

 

not to mention we also have guys like CJ and Star that would be the best D-Lineman on a number of teams, and Trai Turner looks to be on his way to becoming a pro bowl guard. Fan bias aside, would you trade our "core 8" for any team's in the league right now?

[L-TownCat]

As much of a name-on-the-front-of-the-jersey guy as I am, no.

I don't care about the other players, I mean I like watching a few but when it comes right down to it, I say fug em.

im selfish as kid with a new toy.

my team

MINE

[Jangler]

This is not the narrative of the Panthers. People keep doubting and yet we win. I guess now with the hype of Romo coming back and wondering if he can run the table...lol...we are starting to get a closer look and "media types" changing their opinion of the Panthers.

[t96]

25 minutes ago, KillaCamNewton said:

Cam Newton: one of two or three MVP candidates this year

Peterson, Cam, Brady, Palmer and Dalton are MVP candidates. Yes still Dalton despite 1 loss. That could change soon just like it did for Rodgers and Rodgers could come back into the race as well but I'd say there's 5 MVP candidates right now.

Still your point stands though.

[Marguide]

Cam, Olsen, Luke, Norman, TD and Short are all arguably top 3-5 at their respective positions. You can add Kalil, but center is not a premier position. Stewart, no way.

But either way, yes, this team has a lot of talent.