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Carolina Panthers backup quarterback in the spotlight

By Brandon Scott

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Quarterback Will Grier of West Virginia works out during day three of the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Quarterback Will Grier of West Virginia works out during day three of the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Carolina Panthers quarterback selection puts focus on backup battle.

The Carolina Panthers hadn’t chosen a quarterback with any draft pick since using the top overall selection on Cam Newton eight years ago. That all changed recently when Will Grier was taken in the third round by general manager Marty Hurney. Joining a crowded position competition behind Newton, it appears Carolina is attempting to add depth and potentially provide a future replacement – giving Grier a significant advantage.

Last season, Taylor Heinicke outplayed Garrett Gilbert earning the active backup position behind Newton but ultimately both played regular season snaps for the Panthers. In addition, undrafted free agent Kyle Allen also saw time under center, including his first NFL start in Week 17 against divisional rival New Orleans.

Injuries to Heinicke and Allen re-opened the door for Gilbert but only the preceding two remain a part of the 90-man roster entering offseason practices. Using a third-round pick on Grier adds a new face to compete for what is likely a single position on the active roster as backup quarterback.

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Newton has displayed his commitment to leadership along with saying all the right things in terms of the Panthers taking a potential replacement. Recognizing his position as captain and the incumbent, Newton has stated he will help prepare anyone and everyone to be ready on game day.

Having Grier ranked higher than this year’s No. 1 overall pick – quarterback Kyler Murray – points toward Carolina already having the backup position decided. While Heinicke, Allen and Grier are all likely to receive opportunities during preseason play, barring injury, it will take a mammoth effort from Heinicke or Allen to overtake Grier on the final 53-man roster.

Grier has yet to play a professional down but it will be interesting to see how he handles the pressures of being a member of the Panthers and apparent heir to Newton. The newest member of the Panthers quarterback room has a strong advantage but still must prove he can live up to the hype.

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If he does, both Heinicke and Allen will soon be searching for other opportunities in order to extend their professional careers.

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