CHARLOTTE — We're almost to the end of list season, since training camp opens next week for most of the league.
And just in time, really.
But among the last of the offseason content opportunities, a number of Panthers players were recognized among the best in the league.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler polled league coaches and executives to glean the top 10 players at each position in the league, and some familiar names popped up.
Jaycee Horn was seventh among cornerbacks, coming off his first Pro Bowl last season.
He was ranked as high as third on some ballots, recognition of the respect he has among his peers.
The Panthers recognized it, too, which is why they gave him a four-year, $100 million contract extension this offseason.
Several other Panthers were named to their respective position lists, though no one else was in the top 10.
Defensive tackle Derrick Brown and guard Robert Hunt were honorable mentions at their slots, along with safety Tre'von Moehrig, who signed here in free agency from the Raiders.
Brown only played one game last season, after suffering a torn meniscus in the opener. But he set a league record for tackles by a defensive lineman in a season (103) the year before, when he went to his first Pro Bowl and was also rewarded with an extension.
"When he's healthy, he's near the top. Elite run stopper with some pass-rush upside," an NFC executive said.
As for Hunt, who came here in free agency last year and made his first Pro Bowl, the ability to dominate in the run game stood out.
"Absolute mauler. Better than you think. Downhill, gap scheme, two-back style of run game. As a pass protector, above-average big man, good hands. Can get over-extended because of aggressiveness," a veteran NFL personnel man said.
Moehrig was a priority free agent this offseason, as they hope his ability to shore up the run defense will shine in the secondary.
"Really productive last year. Better closer to the box. Took advantage of blitzing ability. Carolina will use that," an NFL coordinator said.
The only other Panther who was named in the survey was Chuba Hubbard, among others receiving votes after coming off a career season that happened to coincide with a renaissance at the running back position.
View photos of Jaycee Horn at the One Carolina Club fresh off signing his record-setting contract. The Pro Bowl corner steps to the pool table to embrace his nickname, "8-ball".
