Offensive MVP
DeAngelo Williams
Williams was slowed by an injury last year, but look for him to have another breakout year similar to 2008. With the offense relying heavily on the run game this year, it would not be surprising to see Williams and Jonathan Stewart combine for more than 2,500 yards.

Defensive MVP
Jon Beason
The move to the outside linebacker does not seem to have slowed Beason at all this preseason. I think Beason will be more of a playmaker this year. With Dan Connor in the middle taking on lead blockers, Beason will be freed up and will be able to use his instincts and speed to make plays all over the field. He may not have as many tackles as last year, but I think he will make more big plays.

Offensive Breakout Player
Dante Rosario
Rosario has shown that he can be a pass-catching threat and a big target over the middle. I think

Rosario will have a big year for the Panthers and will be a favorite target for QB Matt Moore.

Defensive Breakout Player
Dan Connor
Conner looked very good in preseason play. He does not look like a second-year player starting for the first time. I expect Connor to have 100+ tackles and be a force against the run.

Best Offensive Rookie
Brandon LaFell
The fact is that the Panthers are relying on LaFell to have a big rookie season. LaFell is slated as the No. 3 receiver and should have a bunch of balls thrown his way. LaFell is definitely talented enough, but many receivers struggle in their first year in the NFL. I think that LaFell will emerge as the No. 2 receiver for the Panthers this season.

Best Defensive Rookie
Greg Hardy
It is unclear how much Hardy will play this year, but he looks like the real deal. I would expect Hardy to get on the field in some substitutions and certain packages, and I think he will make some big plays for the Panthers.

Starting QB At The End Of The Year
Jimmy Clausen
I want to see what Clausen can do against NFL competition in a real game. I think most fans and Panther management thinks the same thing, so if the Panthers do not have a winning record after seven or eight games, I can see them giving Clausen his first start.

-- KEITH McGONIGLE
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