Carolina Panthers: 4 things that fans can look forward to in June

Kawann Short’s return for the Carolina Panthers

The upcoming minicamp for the Carolina Panthers this month should also see the return to the field of Kawann Short. The imposing defensive tackle’s 2019 campaign ended up with a torn rotator cuff that put him on the injured reserve list in October. But all signs point to the player returning to full health this time around.

The organization will be hoping Short comes back to the player of old. And there will be a huge responsibility on his shoulders heading into 2020. The Panthers’ defensive front looks to be a position of strength thanks to some notable additions. And the former second-round pick’s experience will be invaluable throughout camp and beyond.

Defensive coordinator Phil Snow is expected to put the Panthers back to a 4-3 base scheme. This will see Short line up alongside No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown on the interior. And it is sure to turnaround their dismal run defense going forward.

Short’s experience will become invaluable very quickly for the former Auburn standout, who possesses similar traits to the veteran. If the pair gel immediately, it should result in some significant production not only from the defensive tackle tandem. But also from outside rushers who will have more space to work in.

This is an important campaign for Short, who is in the penultimate year of his lucrative deal. He is the Panthers’ highest earner in 2020, counting $19.46 million against the salary cap. This will increase to $20.83 million in 2021. And it is unlikely the player will be kept around at that price.