Carolina Panthers cornerback depth to be determined this week

Multiple Carolina Panthers cornerbacks battle for a position over the final week of preseason play.

Opposite the continued coverage of who ultimately backs up Carolina Panthers franchise quarterback, Cam Newton, is a position battle that shouldn’t be ignored. After struggling for multiple seasons, the Carolina defensive backfield has repeatedly been the team’s worst unit but competition and a fresh set of faces have helped to potentially change things this season.

At cornerback especially, the Panthers have a tight race and coach Ron Rivera will be forced to make some difficult decisions. Historically, Carolina has kept four or five cornerbacks, depending on how the safety positions pan out.

Currently at safety, Eric Reid and Tre Boston are expected to start with Colin Jones and Rashaan Gaulden backing them up. Gaulden missed the last preseason game due to a coach’s decision, but he has been back at practice – although whether the mishap costs him a position remains to be seen.

If not, then keeping four safeties and four cornerbacks becomes a likely scenario. This puts the focus firmly on those battling to backup starting corners James Bradberry and Donte Jackson. However, with only two spots for seven prospects, preseason game four will ultimately determine who makes the cut.

Continue to see how each of the front-runners is performing.