Chase Blackburn News

Dec 30, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton celebrates a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the fourth quarter of their game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

The Carolina Panthers already had a pretty good defense last year, and it was debatable that the Panthers had a better defense than the offense last year.

Rookie mini camp is a preliminary workout to assess the incoming rookie class and allow coaches to work with them independently before the veterans show up later for mandatory OTAs and training camp.

September 9, 2012; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Dwan Edwards reacts after he sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman in the second half at Raymond James Stadium.

All things considered, new Panthers GM Dave Gettleman is off to a pretty good start.

The NFL draft is in the rear-view mirror, and the Carolina Panthers are ready to embark upon rookie minicamp and their upcoming organized team activities .

The Panthers continue to build depth on their defense by taking the 2011 Big 12 Co-Defensive Player of the Year in Iowa State's AJ Klein.

This should be a strength for Carolina, provided Thomas Davis and Jon Beason stay healthy.