Panthers vs. Patriots: Position battles to watch
CB – Kevon Seymour vs. Donte Jackson
The Panthers secondary remains a mystery with only two starters currently in place – cornerback James Bradberry and safety Mike Adams. Behind them, multiple prospects and some veterans are competing for playing time but two have shown they are to be considered above the rest.
Kevon Seymour battled with former Panthers cornerback Daryl Worley, who was traded for receiver Torrey Smith in the offseason, last year opening the door for him to start opposite Bradberry.
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Not convinced, the Panthers drafted Donte Jackson out of LSU in the second-round of the NFL Draft this past spring. The rookie has impressed during training camp and appears poised to supplant Seymour as the starter, especially after an embarrassing debut against former Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin in the preseason opener at Buffalo.
If Jackson can hold his own against Tom Brady and the Patriots on Friday, expect him to win the position outright. If not, another revolving door opposite Bradberry may be installed for the 2018 season.
With the starting group expected to get a majority of the playing time versus the Patriots, these positions will likely see a mix of each candidate to guarantee they get some matchups against the best New England has to offer.
Other than quarterback, which will be delayed until Newton departs, the competition at wide receiver, guard and cornerback among these current Panthers should be as entertaining as the game itself.