4 Carolina Panthers who have exceeded expectations at camp

Tahir Whitehead – LB

The task awaiting Tahir Whitehead in 2020 is substantial. The Carolina Panthers chose him to fill the void left by legendary linebacker Luke Kuechly. And despite this enormous pressure on his shoulders. The former Las Vegas Raider is embracing the opportunity during the early period of training camp.

Whitehead has been a workhorse who is keen to ensure no stone is left unturned in order to hit the ground running. This has resulted in him seeking counsel from Kuechly on the sideline. And he has also challenged the likes of Christian McCaffrey to individual duels when they are taking time out from schedule drills.

This is sure to stand Whitehead in good stead. The Panthers gave him a one-year, $2.5 million this offseason to reunite the player with his former college coach Matt Rhule. And there is every chance he can earn a longer stay with the organization if he performs above the level expected.

Replacing such a prolific performer such as Kuechly is something that would not be suited to everybody. But it is evident early on just how seriously Whitehead is taking matters in a different environment.

While he is never going to possess the same game-changing traits on defense as the perennial All-Pro. If Whitehead can play to his strengths, become a leader, and provide the Panthers with a plug and play starter in 2020. Then he will have done his job and then some.