NFL Training Camp Watch: Carolina Panthers Quarterback Controversy

The Carolina Panthers have been very pleased with the progress of David Carr, the former first pick that was acquired by the Panthers from the Houston Texans this off season. So much so that incumbent Jake Delhomme has to be hearing footsteps. Many fans have decided that Delhomme's penchant for throwing untimely interceptions is costing the Panthers.

While Delhomme certainly throws his fair share of interceptions, and they are often ill timed, his ability to rise to the occasion should be a factor in the Panther's decision as well. Delhomme is a proven winner. He lead the Panthers to the only conference championship in their history, and did so with a less than superstar roster. Certainly past achievements are a possible sign of future events, but that is not always the case. Delhomme is a quality quarterback that should be given the opportunity to prove his position is safe.

David Carr was a very good quarterback in a very bad offense with Houston. The offensive line rarely gave Carr time to take more than a three step drop, and sometimes not even that. Even under these circumstances, David Carr produced decent numbers. Given the chance to play between a quality offensive line, it is thought that Carr may flourish.

Statistically the two quarterbacks match up rather well. David Carr is a career 60 percent passer with last year's completion percentage being his best at a 68 percent . In 2006 Carr threw for 2767 yards and had a very impressive quarterback rating of 82. Delhomme is a career 59.5 percent passer, with last year's effort being at 61 percent. Jake also threw for 2805 yards last season and had a rating of 82.6. The numbers when you compare them are a wash with each of the two quarterbacks having very similar numbers.

While David Carr is certainly a viable, quality quarterback, this is Jake Delhomme's team to lose. If Delhomme comes out ready to play and delivering good decisions, there will be no controversy. If not, or if his decisions become suspect, then it will not take time for the natives in Carolina to start calling for his head. David Carr certainly is a vast improvement over the backups with Carolina in years past. Two quality quarterbacks is a coop whenever you play in a league that sometimes has not even one on a team.

Quarterback Grade--B+