3 things Phil Snow must get from Carolina Panthers training camp

Who is the second starting OLB?

Another thing that Phil Snow and other decision-makers must conclude from training camp is who is going to be the second starting outside linebacker. The Carolina Panthers have plenty of exciting young players ready and willing to step up opposite Shaq Thompson. But which option the coaching staff goes with is still undetermined.

Jermaine Carter and Marquis Haynes appear to be the favorites for the role. There are also the likes of Andre Smith and Jordan Kunaszyk to consider if they catch the eye during team drills.

The Panthers’ front seven looks to be an area of real strength. They have a defensive front that should be much-improved in 2020. And the second level should also be about to make a notable contribution despite the shock retirement of perennial All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly.

Snow will be examining each outside linebacker candidate closely in the coming weeks. He is going into the season relatively blind with no warmup games on the schedule. So there is even a chance that multiple players will be used during the early stages of the campaign until a prolonged starter is found.

Carolina also has the possibility of using second-round pick Yetur Gross-Matos at the position in pass-rushing situations. The former Penn State standout has the physical traits to come in and do some real damage on the edge. And he is explosive enough to make a real difference should the opportunity arise.