4 Panthers players who need to step up vs. the Bears in Week 6

Jermaine Carter – Carolina Panthers LB

There were high hopes for Jermaine Carter heading into the 2020 season. The player was projected to start at outside linebacker opposite Shaq Thompson prior to training camp. But the outstanding performance of rookie Jeremy Chinn saw him earn the position instead.

This has proved to be an inspired decision by the Carolina Panthers’ coaching staff. Chinn has been a revelation at the second level and one that is sure to make him an NFL star in no time at all.

Carter has been restricted to a limited role due to Chinn’s fast rise to prominence. He has seen the field for just two percent of the Panthers’ defensive snaps through five games of the campaign, which was not what the player expected coming into the season.

That being said, there might be a chance for Carter to make an impression at middle linebacker if Tahir Whitehead continues to struggle. The free-agent signing has been a disappointment so far and if this trend continues, it will not take long for Carolina to go in a different direction against the Bears.

One problem Carter does have is that Matt Rhule opted to put Adarius Taylor in when Whitehead went out of their win at the Falcons. This might complicate his chances of an increased role, but if the opportunity does present itself, it is vital he makes the most of it.