Panthers vs. Patriots: Position battles to watch

WR – Damiere Byrd vs. Curtis Samuel

Both Damiere Byrd and Curtis Samuel are young NFL wide receivers who have displayed glimpses of becoming key contributors for Carolina. Byrd joined the Panthers in 2015 as an undrafted free agent and has worked his way onto the active 53-man roster before.

Last season he became a productive part of the offense toward the end of the year with multiple catches, a two touchdown performance and even returned a kickoff for a touchdown. Able to contribute on both special teams and the offense, Byrd and Samuel offer similar skill sets.

Samuel is a second year, former second-round draft pick who appeared to be settling into his own before injuries derailed his rookie campaign. Prior to being sidelined with a season ending injury, Samuel recorded catches in four consecutive games including a five reception, 45 yard effort against Miami before suffering the ankle injury.

Each appears to be vying for the fifth receiver position behind Devin Funchess, Torrey Smith, D.J. Moore and Jarius Wright.