4 challenges the Panthers have faced at training camp so far
By Dean Jones
Finding the right combination at cornerback
One area of the field where the Carolina Panthers have plenty of concerns is at cornerback. The coaching staff is working with a completely new group after letting James Bradberry, Ross Cockrell, and Javien Elliott go in free agency. So it is going to be interesting to see how they get on in the face of some stern passing attacks on the schedule.
Finding the right combination for the season opener is going to be tough. The Panthers have a cemented No. 1 in Donte Jackson. Free-agent signing Eli Apple is the favorite to win the second starting role. But his lack of production since entering the league leaves more questions than answers.
Carolina also allocated their fourth-round selection on Troy Pride Jr., who is also in contention for a place on the rotation. But impressive performances from the likes of Corn Elder in camp has given the Panthers a headache regarding what options to go with.
This is a nice problem for them to have. But it is a decision they must get right. There is also the option of bringing in another established veteran in free agency. And there are plenty of players remaining on the market who can come in and immediately contribute.
What comes next in the next few weeks is going to be crucial. But it hard to deny finding the right players who slot in alongside Jackson has been a challenge at camp so far.