John Fox was recently a guest speaker at the Charlotte Touchdown Club luncheon. He spoke in front of 600 people, answering questions and discussing the Panther’s plans for the upcoming season. Here are some of the best parts:

Question: What were the team’s needs prior to the draft and to what extent have you addressed them?

John Fox: We needed to get revitalized at the running back position. We decided very early on we wanted to go high in the draft to meet that need. I think we’ve done that with Jonathan Stewart.

It’s interesting to see that the Panthers had Stewart so high on their draft board. They must see a young Stephen Davis in him.

Question:You must have thought highly of tackle Jeff Otah to trade next year’s number one pick to draft him.

John Fox: We just felt Jeff was a first-round pick at 19 (overall). He probably had some top 10 value, so why not? Instead of a first rounder next year, we got an (extra) first rounder this year.

I guess the Panthers are banking on doing well this year. If they end up doing well, then I think that this would turn out to be a solid trade.

Question: How will third-round draft choice Dan Connor be used?

John Fox: After having just a three-day look at him (Dan), there is no question he is a fine, instinctive football player. Right now, he’s on the second or third tier as far as the depth chart. But I’ve seen guys blast up the depth chart fast and I have high expectations for him.

John Fox compared Dan Connor to center Ryan Kalil of last year’s draft. The Panthers did not need a center at the time, however he was ranked at the top of the Panther’s draft board, and now they are starting to find uses for him.

Question: What will you do to make the 2008 season one to remember for Panthers fans?

John Fox: Regardless of what gets written or what gets said, whether it’s midseason, preseason or postseason, I can just tell you as an organization we are committed to winning and we’re doing everything and utilizing all of the avenues to win. That’s what this League’s about and it’s only fun if you win.

Get ready for an exciting season, Panthers fans.

Tags: Charlotte Touchdown Club, Interview, john fox, Q & A