What Is On Tap In Carolina

The Panthers have restructured the contract of punter Jason Backer. Frank Murtha, Baker’s agent, reported that the punter was scheduled to make “$1.1 million this season.” The Panthers are now shelling out $850,000 to Baker for the 2009 season. Murtha continued by saying “the rest of his deal, which runs through 2012, now includes $1.37 in ‘01, $1.4 million in 2011,  and $1.55 in 20012. The Panthers felt it was the right thing to do, so they move a little money around.” Is it just me, or aren’t they paying kickers a little to much?  The restructuring allows the Panthers to save money and they still haven’t made the decision to re-sign free agents such as long snapper Jason Kyle and punt and kickoff return man Mark Jones. Jones visited the Tennessee Titans on Thursday (according to The Nashville Tennessean). Jones returned 39 punts for an average of 11.4 yards. He also took back 40 kickoffs for a 24.0-yard average. He stepped in nicely, Stabilizing the Panther’s punt and kickoff return last season while Ryne Robinson was out with a knee injury. Robinson and Jason Carter are expected to be back with the Panthers. Its also been reported that receiver Kenneth Moore might return punts and kicks.

Purchase Carolina Panthers tickets at stubhub.com.