4 Panthers players who need to step up at the Falcons in Week 5

Pharoh Cooper – Carolina Panthers KR/WR

Pharoh Cooper might have found opportunities limited in the passing game so far. But his production as a kick returner has been of real benefit to the Carolina Panthers at critical moments of the campaign.

This is a trend that needs to continue at the Falcons. If Cooper gets the chance to secure some strong field position early and often, then it is sure to come with some significant points on the board against a defense that has been nothing short of porous through the first quarter of the season.

Cooper is averaging 26.6 yards-per-return on kickoffs, which is pretty good in the grand scheme of things. He didn’t get the chance to make much of an impression in this area in Week 4 against the Cardinals. But that is thanks in no small part to the offense and their ability to make the most out of almost every drive.

Matt Rhule would much prefer this rather than relying on Cooper to get them where they need to be. Although it is a nice security blanket to have.

It doesn’t appear there will be much in the way of targets coming the player’s way. But his surprising ability blocking defenders has come in for some praise of late and is an under-the-radar element to his game that shouldn’t be overlooked.