Free agency continues and the NFL Draft awaits but what is the current state of the Carolina Panthers roster…
Every component of the Carolina Panthers football team is under new leadership in 2018, including special teams. Former linebacker Chase Blackburn enters his first season as coordinator after previously serving as an assistant. The unit mixes a combination of veteran leadership in the kicking game with untapped return potential.
Last year, much of the season was spent finding the right combination of kick and punt returners after injuries surfaced and extended playing time ensued for running back Christian McCaffrey. His impact on offense, limited the amount of return opportunities and a more stable piece is needed this year.
After initially drafting a kicker to potentially replace Graham Gano, the Panthers decided to keep him on board as Harrison Butker was plucked away from the practice squad. The rookie set an NFL record, kicking for Kansas City, for most made field goals (38) despite playing in just 13 games.
Following is a look at the current state of the Carolina special teams leading up the NFL Draft in a few weeks.
Kicker
Graham Gano
Gano ultimately earned his position last year during training camp and the preseason, beating out Butker in the eyes of coach Ron Rivera. He rebounded from a tumultuous 2016 season by making all but one kick during the regular season.
However, an early miss during the playoff game at New Orleans avoided an early lead for the Panthers and put them in a hole as the Saints scored just two plays later. Entering the offseason as a free agent, Gano was re-signed to a four-year contract this offseason.
Punter
Just a few seasons ago, Michael Palardy was brought in for similar reasons as the drafting of Butker, for veteran competition. He was eventually released, losing the position to Andy Lee, but reacquired after Lee suffered an injury during the season.
Palardy responded with booming kicks and significant hang time, earning another training camp invitation and opportunity at the starting role. He outperformed the veteran and spent all of 2017 helping the Panthers change field position when possible.
Long Snapper
Rarely making the headlines, which is a good thing for his position, J.J. Jansen has quietly been providing pinpoint snaps on special teams for years. The Carolina veteran has not missed a game since arriving via trade with the Green Bay Packers prior to the 2009 NFL Draft, now entering his tenth season.
Jansen is a former Pro Bowl snapper and should continue to be a vital part of the special teams unit for years to come. At 32 years old, he remains under contract through the 2020 season despite a potential out next year – it is expected he fulfills the current contract and could receive another extension in the future.
Kick Return
Fozzy Whittaker, Christian McCaffrey, Curtis Samuel, Damiere Byrd, Russell Shepard
Curtis Samuel registered the most kick returns last year despite having his season shortened by injury. The second-year player is expected back on the field this season and if he can stay healthy, should provide the best option moving forward.
Opposite him, Fozzy Whittaker has been the longest tenured kick return man although he doesn’t provide the same breakaway speed. While he may not be as dynamic a runner as McCaffrey, Whittaker does provide a solid option with experience in key situations.
Punt Return
Christian McCaffrey, Damiere Byrd
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Punt returner Kaelin Clay is back in Buffalo after generating the second most returns for Carolina last year. When it wasn’t Clay back to receive, the Panthers turned to rookie running back Christian McCaffrey, who had experience returning kicks in college.
This offseason, Carolina let running back Jonathan Stewart walk, leaving McCaffrey as the main option in the backfield with Cameron Artis-Payne and Whittaker. As the primary back, even with the addition of another via the NFL Draft, McCaffrey’s role in the return game would be expected to diminish except in critical situations.
Some refer to special teams as one-third of the game combined with offense and defense. While not everyone agrees with this sentiment there is no denying that their impact on the eventual outcome can be pivotal. Whether through kicking, punting or on a return, not only does momentum often hinge on a single play but with points on the line, ensuring their production is solid remains critical.
Next: Offseason Roster Review - Defense
Hurney and Rivera need to find solid options in all return capacities, instead of the revolving door approach from a season ago.