Panthers turn down trade offers for Dan Connor

[Dpantherman]

By Pat Yasinskas

The Carolina Panthers have fielded several trade inquiries about linebacker Dan Connor this offseason, according to league sources. But the sources say the Panthers have made it clear to other teams that they’re not letting Connor go.

Although Connor has been mostly a backup and special-teams player in his first two seasons, he is expected to compete for a starting job this season. The Panthers released veteran linebackers Na’il Diggs and Landon Johnson last season.

In recent days, coach John Fox and general manager Marty Hurney specifically have mentioned Connor as a player they expect to step up this season. They also have mentioned linebacker James Anderson as another player who has a chance to earn more playing time this season.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/9116/carolina-panthers-turn-down-connor-trade-trade-talk

[Darth Biscuit]

I like Connor, but what's he gonna play? MLB is taken... so is he just gonna be Beason's backup or really compete for OLB?

[Urrymonster]

I like Connor, but what's he gonna play? MLB is taken... so is he just gonna be Beason's backup or really compete for OLB?

Well it looks pretty obvious that they are going to try him at OLB, otherwise they would not say they expect him to step up this year

[nitroblast]

I like Connor, but what's he gonna play? MLB is taken... so is he just gonna be Beason's backup or really compete for OLB?

He started at OLB in the New England game, if I remember correctly. He had 11 tackles.

[WilkinsonDonnie]

Yeah Panthers website has an article raving about Connor playing SAM in place of Diggs and how well he did against them. Something like 10 tackles and a fumble recovery. Also talks about how hes been putting in extra work try to improve his speed and strength. I say hes earned his chance and Im excited to see what he can do starting.

[monstercat]

It's all about developing your own players. Why trade a young player you've been training for 2 years when he's making good progress? I doubt anybody offered anything higher than a 4th round pick anyway.

[Darth Biscuit]

He started at OLB in the New England game, if I remember correctly. He had 11 tackles.

Cool, I didn't remember that... I know there was some concern about his speed...

[jasonluckydog]

I bet Rosie is pleased

[The Saltman]

Im excited to watch Dan Connor

[scpanther22]

Connor has been working hard..the article on panthers.com said he did not even go home this year. He stayed to work out.

[Snake]

What Connor lacks in athletic ability he makes up in good instincts and hard work. I mean every time he is in the game this dude is around the ball carrier and thats something you cant teach. I really think if he could be a good Sam.

[ChucktownK]

Good job FO.

[Lout]

I always thought the Pantehrs got a steal with Connor.. he was projected to go in the bottom of the first that year.. and I couldn't believe you slipped to the 3rd round.

[HSCBandit07]

Connor, Beason, Davis. Sounds nickname worthy... We could have the best linebacking corp in the NFL if Connor is legit