Panthers: 4 players to watch closely at 2020 training camp

Carolina Panthers Player No. 4: Kawann Short (DT)

Veteran defensive tackle Kawann Short is set to make a full return when training camp gets underway. The Pro Bowler missed almost all of the 2019 season due to a torn rotator cuff. And to say the Carolina Panthers missed him would be a massive understatement.

Having Short back is going to improve the Panthers’ defense considerably. Their defensive front looks to be an area of considerable strength. And this was further boosted by their decision to take Derrick Brown at No. 7 overall.

Slotting the rookie alongside Short has the scope to completely transform Carolina’s run defense. Their ability to command attention should also free up room for the team’s pass-rushing threats to do some damage. And despite the obvious concerns surrounding their secondary. This unit should still be able to pile the pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

There is just no telling what such a serious injury has done to Short’s chances of making the impact that the Panthers are accustomed to. He was playing at a very high level in 2018. But that was a long time ago and the former second-round pick isn’t getting any younger.

How he looks on the field during camp will be key. But Short taking up a mentoring role with Brown is equally as important. If the pair can form a good bond from the word go. Then it could be one of the best defensive tackle tandems in the NFL next season.