NFL

The Panthers ran a "deception" offense for the first half of 2012, basing their entire formula on shotgun plays and read-option. The offense took off in the second half when more base runs were incorporated, and Carolina won four of its final six games including a 30-20 victory over Atlanta in Week 14. "I can't wait," said Tolbert. "In the running back room, we rejoiced when (Shula) said we're going to run the ball. That's one thing we're gonna do."

The coaching staff isn't wild about Smith's penchant for diving for passes at Organized Team Activities, but they don't discourage competitiveness. As the clear-cut No. 1 pass-game option in new OC Mike Shula's offense, expect Smith to turn in a third straight 1,000-plus-yard season despite having turned 34 in May.

The coaching staff isn't wild about Smith's penchant for diving for passes at Organized Team Activities, but they don't discourage competitiveness. As the clear-cut No. 1 pass-game option in new OC Mike Shula's offense, expect Smith to turn in a third straight 1,000-plus-yard season despite having turned 34 in May.

The 6-foot-4 pass-rusher played at 297 pounds last season. He says he's down to 283. The third-year pro is coming off a breakout, 11-sack campaign. "I feel like I'm the best to ever live," Hardy said Thursday. "And if I'm not, I'll be here tomorrow and Monday fixing that problem." Going into the final year of his rookie contract, Hardy is going to get paid if his 2013 goes anything like this 2012.

The Panthers have now signed their entire draft class. GM Dave Gettleman referred to Barner as a "little scatback" after selecting him, and we wouldn't expect him to contribute much on offense as a rookie. With a crowded backfield and stable of return men, Barner could be a weekly inactive this season.

Klein was a three-year starter at Iowa State, playing both strong-side and weak-side linebacker. He and Chase Blackburn will be the main backups at linebacker in Carolina, and Klein will play a lot on special teams as a rookie.

It came as a mild surprise to see Beason on the field working out with the team, and then running 20 50-yard sprints after practice. He may not take part in June minicamp on a full-time basis, but he should be fine for training camp. Beason was working at strong-side linebacker on Thursday.