Carolina Panthers: Initial reactions from unofficial depth chart

The fact that Cameron Artis-Payne is second on the depth chart for the running backs is a little bit surprising. I personally would have given the second spot to either Jordan Scarlett or Elijah Holyfield. That may sound a bit extreme, but I have my reasons.

For one, both of those running backs possess a ton of potential and athleticism. We know what we’re getting with Artis-Payne and I don’t think that is going to change. When talking about a guy who could be a viable backup to McCaffrey, you definitely want someone young who could carry the load. Holyfield has been working hard after practices and throughout the practices themselves trying to get better. Scarlett put together a nice resume at Florida and presumably was selected in the Draft for a backup role.

Artis-Payne carried the ball 19 times for 69 yards and a touchdown last season, averaging 3.8 yards per carry. Granted, he did not get a ton of opportunities last year, but he also didn’t do anything to make himself stand out.

I am all for giving a veteran the benefit of the doubt when it comes to a depth chart situation. However, Artis-Payne  hasn’t really shown anything over the past couple of seasons to warrant staying at the second spot. The coaches must’ve liked something they saw over the course of the past couple of weeks. That’s the only rationale I can think of for putting him there. It should have gone to one of the younger running backs, especially with how involved the position is within the Carolina Panthers offense.