The Facts: Although his agent has claimed otherwise, Hackett said the Panthers never promised him a starting role, and that he's fine with that. He's just happy to be part of what he sees as a talented group.

Diehards Line:Muhsin Muhammad and Hackett will both be signficant contributors. Both will play in three-receiver sets, and neither seems to care if he takes the No. 2 or No. 3 role, at least publicly. Still, Observer staffer Stan Olson advised readers not to be surprised if Hackett, the younger and faster of the two, winds up grabbing the most playing time opposite Steve Smith.