4 dark-horse Panthers players who can steal a 2020 roster spot
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers player No. 1: Aaron Monteiro – OL
One player who has earned a shot at making the roster is Aaron Monteiro. The offensive lineman came into the Carolina Panthers as an unfancied player looking to make an impact. And it is hard not to be impressed by the contribution he has made so far.
Monteiro did not hear his name called in the 2019 NFL Draft despite a strong college career at Boston College that spanned 30 games. His failed attempts to make the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots last time around is clearly an experience he has learned from.
Couple this with the feeling of knowing what it is like when you get cut is something that has spurred Monteiro on during his second opportunity with the Panthers. And his 6-foot-7 frame has really caught the eye on the line of scrimmage during team drills.
Monteiro has held his own against some formidable defensive linemen in Carolina. The player is also versatile enough to operate either at guard or on the edge at tackle, which is something else that he has going for him.
Having this sort of versatility has been an essential component when picking new recruits to join the Panthers this offseason. Monteiro deserves enormous credit for the way he has applied himself during camp and it might just be enough to make the team.