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Grading the Carolina Panthers’ Top 5 Free Agency Decisions In 2015

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Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Grading the Carolina Panthers' Top 5 Free Agency Decisions In 2015

Carolina Panthers Helmets
Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

The Panthers finished the 2014 season atop the NFC South, but with a below-.500 record. They need to make improvements this offseason and have made a few key signings in positions of need. Here are my grades for their top free agency moves thus far.

5. Ed Dickson

Ed Dickson Carolina Panthers
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

5. Ed Dickson

Ed Dickson Carolina Panthers
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The Panthers re-signed Dickson to a three-year, $ 6.8 million contract this offseason, and let's just hope this new contract provides him with motivation to play better. In 10 games last season he only had 10 catches for 115 yards. He is employed primarily to block but received the second-worst pass-blocking grade among tight ends. He needs to improve in the upcoming years.

Grade: C

4. Kurt Coleman

Kurt Coleman Kansas City Chiefs
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

4. Kurt Coleman

Kurt Coleman Kansas City Chiefs
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Coleman served as a rotational safety for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2014, but performed well and led the team in interceptions with three. The hope for Carolina is that he can come in and replace the aging Roman Harper at free safety, but his inexperience as a starter could pose concern.

Grade: C+

3. Dwan Edwards

Dwan Edwards Carolina Panthers
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

3. Dwan Edwards

Dwan Edwards Carolina Panthers
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Edwards seems to be on the downside of his career as he approaches 34 years of age. He is, however, the best backup defensive tackle the Panthers have. He will most likely continue on as a rotational defensive tackle, and by re-signing him, Carolina has ensured depth at the position.

Grade: B

2. Michael Oher

Michael Oher Baltimore Ravens
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

2. Michael Oher

Michael Oher Baltimore Ravens
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Oher, known for his incredible life story depicted in the movie, 'The Blind Side', was signed to a two-year, $ 7 million contract by the Panthers. He will make an immediate impact as the best offensive tackle on Carolina's roster entering the 2015 season. He has been on a bit of a downfall over the past few seasons, but his raw talent is undeniable.

Grade: B

1. Ted Ginn Jr.

Ted Ginn Jr. Arizona Cardinals
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

1. Ted Ginn Jr.

Ted Ginn Jr. Arizona Cardinals
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Panthers were in need of an explosive, play-making receiver, and I believe they got just that by signing Ginn. He will not only serve as a quick and intriguing deep threat in the receiving corps, but he will also take over for Philly Brown as the primary kick returner. This is a solid move for the Panthers.

Grade: A-

Julie Swartz is a writer for RantSports.
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