4 Panthers under threat by Eli Apple and Keith Kirkwood’s return
By Dean Jones
Rasul Douglas – Carolina Panthers CB
Rasul Douglas has been one of the real surprises from the Carolina Panthers’ season so far. The cornerback didn’t arrive at the organization until final cuts had been made across the league and it is clear he is playing with a significant chip on his shoulder after being waived by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Douglas performed well enough against the Raiders in Week 1 to earn a starting position. This brought an even greater level of performance from the player and it would be a big call to remove him from the lineup in this sort of form.
That being said, the Panthers didn’t bring Eli Apple in to sit on the sidelines or be their nickel cornerback.
His game is more suited to the outside, and there appears little chance of Carolina’s coaching staff taking Donte Jackson off the primary receiving option after the impressive start he has made to the campaign.
It would be foolish for the Panthers to throw Apple to the wolves with a heavy snap count early on. Having Douglas is a nice security blanket and one that has given them an assured presence in the secondary that was desperately needed opposite Jackson.
Although Douglas may be a little bit apprehensive following the decision to designate the former No. 10 overall pick for a return. The veteran should be confident enough in his own ability to ensure this doesn’t become too much of a problem.