Power Ranking NFC South Offenses: Where do Atlanta Falcons rank?

Jan 3, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates a touchdown during the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals in the 2014 NFC Wild Card playoff football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

3. Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton can hurt defenses in a number of ways, and he alone makes this offense a strong unit. Newton threw for 3,127 yards and 18 touchdowns last season while also rushing for 539 yards and five touchdowns. 

January 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin (13) celebrates with running back Fozzy Whittaker (43) after he scores a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

There isn’t a whole lot of depth at receiver, but they could have an interesting duo with huge pass-catching threats in Kelvin Benjamin and Devin Funchess.

Benjamin was impressive in his rookie campaign, catching 73 passes for 1,008 yards and nine touchdowns. The 6’5, 240-pounder causes mismatches for defenders. They will be hoping for a similar effect with 6’4 rookie Devin Funchess.

Funchess is versatile, but is raw. He will need to time to improve his route running and limit his drops, but the potential is clear. With their height, these two could wreak havoc on opposing defenses.

The Panthers don’t have any concerns in the backfield, either. Jonathan Stewart will be the starter, and he finished 2014 with 175 carries for 809 yards and three touchdowns. Missing three games, he would have possibly surpassed the 1,000-yard mark had he featured in all 16.

Carolina boasts one of the league’s most consistent tight ends in Greg Olsen, who will once again be a dangerous threat in the passing game for Newton. Olsen surpassed 1,000 yards for the first time in 2014, catching 84 passes for 1,008 yards (tied with Benjamin, worth noting) and six touchdowns.

This offense is set to get stronger, but it’s only good for the third spot at present.

Next: No. 2