Jarrett Continues to Blow Opportunities

Like other Trojan fans, I sat here and frowned at NFL franchises that passed on both Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith in the first round of the 2007 draft. How could I not believe they were first round worthy? The cardinal and gold pumps through my veins. I could understand Calvin Johnson being the first receiver taken, with his speed and hands on such a large frame. But Teddy Ginn Jr. and Anthony Gonzalez? Please!

One year later, I can see those franchises had it right, at least in the case of Dwayne Jarrett. Steve Smith has a superbowl ring. Injury kept him off the field for a good part of the 2007 season, but he was always productive, and a sure handed pass catcher in the Giants red zone. Dwayne Jarrett failed to become that NFL receiver I thought he would be. Instead of proving all those that passed on him wrong, he continues to prove them right.

The Panthers aren't looking for a No. 1 receiver, because they have one in their own Steve Smith. All they're asking is for someone to step up and make some plays on the other side, to loosen the double teams Smith faces with each snap of the ball. For whatever the reasons may be, Jarrett wasn't able to do it.

He aimed to prove his worth in the upcoming camps, and would be challenged by the Panthers acquisition of Mushin Muhammed. Jarrett was believed to be the frontrunner, up until this latest incident. Jarrett was arrested on Monday night and charged with DWI. Punishment is nearly certain, and can include entry into the NFL's substance abuse program. Not a good move for Dwayne, whose own actions may be planting him on the bench for another season.

The good news out of Carolina is the waiving of the often injured Justin Hartwig. This move most likely gives Trojan Ryan Kalil the starting center position. Also, away from the coast, and up in the Rockies, the Denver Broncos signed Keary Colbert, who was released by the Panthers last month.