Panthers defense/special teams: Regular season report card

Secondary: 78, C+

B at 49ers, B- vs. Bills, D+ vs. Saints, C at Patriots
B- at Lions, C vs. Eagles, B at Bears, A at Bucs
C+ vs. Falcons, B- vs. Dolphins, D at Jets, D at Saints
C+ vs. Vikings, A vs. Packers, D vs. Buccaneers, B- at Falcons

An obvious weakness one year ago, the defensive secondary has improved their overall play but remains a liability given the impressive efforts elsewhere on the field. The Panthers secondary has benefited from a great pass rush, but given time in the pocket, opposing quarterbacks remain capable of picking this unit apart.

On the outside, James Bradberry has locked himself into the starting role while Daryl Worley’s late season emergence has seen his playing time increase over Kevon Seymour, with whom he previously shared the role.

Captain Munnerlyn returned to Carolina but was met with unexpected circumstances leading to an inactive status for one game and a recent lack of production. Stemming from his lack of playing time in the first meeting with New Orleans, it will be interesting to see if he is relied upon for the playoffs.