Carolina Panthers training camp: 4 players with the most to prove
By Dean Jones
player. Scouting Report. 2. CB. CAROLINA PANTHERS. ELIAPPLE. 87. Pick Analysis
Carolina Panthers Player No. 2: Eli Apple (CB)
The Carolina Panthers let James Bradberry, Ross Cockrell, and Javien Elliott go in free agency. This has left the cornerback room with more questions than answers heading into training camp. And one player, in particular, has more to prove than most.
Eli Apple came into the NFL with a high ceiling and was taken No. 10 overall by the New York Giants. To say things haven’t gone according to plan so far would be an understatement. And this appears to be his final chance to make a starting spot his own.
The Panthers gave Apple a one-year, $3 million deal in the hope he has finally make the most out of his impressive skill set. Donte Jackson is the undisputed No. 1 cornerback. And the former New Orleans Saint will also have fourth-round pick Troy Pride Jr. breathing down his neck in pursuit of some notable minutes during his rookie season.
3 ways that Eli Apple can help the Carolina Panthers. light. Related Story
Apple gave up 43 receptions from 68 targets in 2019 on his way to a modest 63.8 grade from Pro Football Focus. His speed remains a standout feature of his game. But the player does tend to get flustered under pressure.
Carolina’s front seven should take some of the pressure off their backend next season. However, the Panthers are coming up against some elite passing attacks. So Apple will need to be at the top of his game from the outset.