Carolina Panthers: First-quarter grades of 2019

Defense

Defensive Line: 91 (A-)
Linebackers: 89 (B+)
Defensive Backs: 87 (B)

Defensively the changes Carolina made during the offseason appear to be paying off. Coach Ron Rivera assumed play calling responsibilities late last year and has maintained that role through the first part of 2019. Coupled with a shift in scheme and personnel, this unit is beginning to take off.

Up front the loss of Short is a detrimental blow, but also an opportunity for two individuals who had a rough start to the year. Bryan Cox Jr. was signed from the practice squad to fill Short’s position and after some legal troubles following training camp, he’s back to active duty. Vernon Butler, a former first-round pick, didn’t have his option picked up by the team but he too now has the chance to prove his worth weekly.

Benefiting from the increased pressure up front and due to some recent consistency, the Carolina defensive backfield is improving. Currently leading the league in passing yards allowed (158.8) and playing last week without starting corner Donte Jackson, this group remains the lowest performing unit on defense but has closed the gap considerably.