Carolina Panthers Week 1 roster prediction

Carolina Panthers Week 1 roster prediction – Defense

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 04: Luke Kuechly #59 and teammate Donte Jackson #26 of the Carolina Panthers react against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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Carolina Panthers first-round pick, Brian Burns

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: Brian Burns of Florida State reacts after being chosen #16 overall by the Carolina Panthers during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Defensive End (6)

Mario Addison, Brian Burns, Bryan Cox Jr., Marquis Haynes, Bruce Irvin, Efe Obada

Mario Addison continues his development into a successful pass rusher after averaging nine-plus sacks over the past three seasons. His continued contributions will be beneficial as Carolina adds veteran Bruce Irvin and first-round pick Brian Burns into the mix.

Both are expected to have an immediate impact on the defensive front and in a pass heavy NFC South division, getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks is critical. If this reconstructed unit can apply consistent pressure it will help, especially facing Matt Ryan and Drew Brees twice a year.

Efe Obada is another interesting player to watch, especially as Carolina travels to London – where he grew up and his path to the NFL began in 2014 – for a game against the Buccaneers this season.

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