Carolina Panthers: Week 1 Defensive grades vs. Dallas Cowboys

See how the Carolina Panthers defense performed against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly gave coaches, teammates and fans cause for concern after going to the ground and receiving medical attention for a knee injury. Surrounded by the Panthers medical staff, veteran captain Julius Peppers and fellow linebacker Shaq Thompson, Kuechly eventually walked off the field under his own power.

Carolina continues to be plagued by the injury bug early this season. Offensive starting right tackle Daryl Williams was carted from the field, tight end Greg Olsen reappeared from the tunnel in a walking boot after hurting his foot, punt returning wide receiver Damiere Byrd suffered a knee injury and starting safety Da’Norris Searchy missed some time. Kuechly was another significant loss but after administering some tests on the sideline was deemed okay to return.

Keeping Dallas from crossing midfield throughout the entire first half while registering six sacks and a turnover in the game, the defense appeared in midseason form. The secondary benefited from constant pressure up front as Carolina played a significant amount of their nickel package behind them with Thomas Davis serving a four game suspension.

Continue to see how each defensive unit graded out after an exciting 16-8 victory over the visiting Dallas Cowboys.