4 secret weapons for the Carolina Panthers in 2020

Carolina Panthers Player No. 2: Jermaine Carter (LB)

There seems to be a window of opportunity awaiting Jermaine Carter in 2020. The player is projected to slot in opposite Shaq Thompson at the outside linebacker spot. And there are high hopes within the organization that he can make the most of this chance to prove himself at the very top.

Carter has been part of the Panthers since he entered the league as a fifth-round pick in 2018. The former Maryland standout has shown some promise during his limited time on the field. And his third year as a professional could see a surge in numbers in a more prominent role.

There is plenty of encouragement regarding Carter’s ability to make the transition to a starter. He has tremendous reflexes and is also strong in the tackle. But his ability to get in the backfield on the edge consistently is something that has come into question.

The player earned a 54.0 grade from Pro Football Focus for his efforts in 2019. If Carter can reach or even exceed expectations next time around, then it could come with some financial benefits.

Carter is heading into the penultimate year of his deal and will make a base salary of $750,000 in 2020. This will rise to $950,000 in 2021, but the linebacker would be in a strong bargaining position in regard to a possible extension if he proves a consistent contributor to Carolina’s defense next season.