NFC South: Impact Newcomers

SI Staff | Jul 17, 2006

NFC South: Impact Newcomers /

NFC South: Impact Newcomers

John Abraham

He joins a line that already has two elite players in tackle Rod Coleman and end Patrick Kerney. On paper, this is one of the best units in the NFL. Abraham had 53.5 sacks in six years with the Jets, and he'll see fewer double teams with Atlanta. The Falcons' defense finished a disappointing 21st overall last season, and management is spending significant money in an attempt to get it in the top 10.

Drew Brees

He's coming off surgery on his right shoulder, and the Saints will be watching with bated breath when he finally plays in a full-contact game. So far the former Charger has looked good throwing the ball, but he's never been a guy who wins games with his arm strength. He and rookie Reggie Bush have given the Saints a new air of excitement this offseason.

Keyshawn Johnson

Johnson turns 34 on July 22 and is no longer at the top of his game, but he's a great complement to Carolina's game-breaker Steve Smith. Johnson is still a solid possession receiver -- he caught 71 passes for 839 yards and six touchdowns with Dallas last year -- and he's one of the best blocking wideouts in the NFL.

Lawyer Milloy

Atlanta brought in the former Bills and Patriots star to help improve a porous run defense. Milloy is entering his 11th season and has probably lost a step or two, but he's known as a cerebral player and will be a big upgrade for the Falcons at this position.

Reggie Bush

He is still unsigned, although he has said he does not want to hold out. Once Bush arrives, the Saints will have a myriad of ways to use the Heisman Trophy winner. The more touches Bush gets, the better the Saints will be.

David Boston

There's no guarantee that Boston will make the team, but he has impressed the coaches so far and could add a new dimension to Tampa Bay's somewhat pedestrian offense. Boston is getting into shape after missing most of the last two seasons with knee injuries. In 2001 he had 98 catches for 1,598 yards while with Arizona.

DeAngelo Williams

Carolina hopes the rookie out of Memphis will help revitalize a running game that struggled last year. He will be expected to take pressure off starter DeShaun Foster, who has had durability issues his entire career. Carolina also hopes Foster can help a kick-return unit that ranked 30th last season.

Wayne Gandy

Atlanta lost starting left tackle Kevin Shaffer in free agency and is hoping the 35-year-old Gandy has enough gas left in the tank to give them at least one good season. At the very least, Gandy adds experience for a line that struggled last year.

Justin Hartwig

Carolina paid big bucks for the former Titans center. He'll replace veteran Jeff Mitchell, who was on the decline. A sixth-round pick in 2002, Hartwig has developed into one of the better centers in the league. He's very quick for a big man and should help the Panthers run the ball more effectively this season.

Jamie Winborn

He has struggled with injuries of late, but the former 49er and Jaguar is entering the perfect spot for career rejuvenation in Tampa Bay. The Bucs ranked No. 1 overall in defense last year, and their system lets linebackers make plenty of plays. Winborn has excellent speed and is a solid tackler who could make Tampa Bay's solid defense stingier.

Published Jul 17, 2006

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