Carolina Panthers Week 1 roster prediction – Special Teams

Who suits up for the Carolina Panthers special teams on Week 1 this season?

As the Carolina Panthers Organized Team Activities (OTAs) continue into the summer months, their are many players vying for positions. These competitions will only intensify as training camp approaches but for a few players on the roster, their jobs are secure for the time being.

As a specialist in the National Football League, you are often seen as either the hero or a complete failure. It’s a difficult line to walk but one that each of the Panthers current group has endured over the past few seasons. It wasn’t too long ago that punter Michael Palardy was facing stiff competition in Andy Lee and Graham Gano, a tough test from then rookie-kicker Harrison Butker.

Each has been consistent enough recently to warrant their spot entering the 2019 season but playing a position often viewed with a “what have you done for me lately” microscope can be difficult. In addition, it all starts with long-snapper J.J. Jansen, who has played for Carolina since 2009, appearing in every regular season game and the playoffs.

These three comprise the specialists portion of the roster and should again to start the year, but there are opportunities for others to make an impact in the return game. For those fortunate enough to earn a position on the final 53-man roster for offense and defense, there will be some candidates that rise to the top.

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Running back Christian McCaffrey was not used in the same roles as his rookie season, due in part to his increased responsibilities in the backfield – something that is likely to continue. The only returners with experience from last year still on the roster are Curtis Samuel and D.J. Moore – who may see a decline similar to McCaffrey.

This opens the door for Jarius Wright and Rashad Ross or potentially someone else to break onto the final roster due to their particular skill set. As with many of the position battles taking place this offseason, keep an eye on the special teams.

Even though the main three are set, there should still be plenty to watch throughout training camp and the preseason.