4 big takeaways from Panthers unofficial 2020 depth chart
By Dean Jones
Jeremy Chinn at outside linebacker
To say that Jeremy Chinn has made a smooth transition to life with the Carolina Panthers would be something of an understatement. The second-round pick has been a big hit with coaching staff and teammates alike. But where the organization will use him was still very much up in the air until their unofficial depth chart was released.
Chinn was listed as the joint-starter at outside linebacker alongside Jermaine Carter, which was a surprise given the player’s experience at the safety position during his time at Southern Illinois. There is plenty of hope that he can make a significant impact at the second level and he has all the athletic attributes needed in cover situations.
The Panthers won’t be expecting much in the way of pass-rushing, and nor should they. Carter can slot in during these situations and leave Chinn covering in the slot against tight ends or wide receivers. He was accomplished in this role at the college level and has all the traits needed to make a real go of things in an NFL environment.
Having someone with the versatility of Chinn is going to be a big asset in 2020 and beyond. The player will be used in a multitude of different ways initially and outside linebacker is somewhere the Panthers feel he can make a lasting contribution opposite Shaq Thompson when the opportunity arises.