Predicting the Panthers 2016 Starters & Backups

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Dec 28, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Leonard Johnson (29) against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

NICKELBACK

Starter: Leonard Johnson

With the cornerback position as a whole in a flux and the heavy use of nickel packages on defense, the role of nickel corner is an important one in Carolina. And with no one taking hold of it yet, the Panthers decided to bring in a veteran in Leonard Johnson to compete. Johnson’s experience as a nickelback is valuable to the team and with experience in the NFC South, it would be no surprise to see Carolina hang onto him through camp and give him the starting role.

Backup: Zack Sanchez

The third Panthers rookie corner is Zack Sanchez, the likeliest candidate to play nickel. He has the ball skills and playing experience for the position but, like the others, hasn’t flashed enough thus far into the offseason. With training camp and preseason games still ahead there’s certainly enough time for him to earn the starting role though.

Next: FREE SAFETY

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