4 Panthers roleplayers who need to shine at the Saints in Week 7

Marquis Haynes – Carolina Panthers DE

Marquis Haynes might need to bring a little bit more to the defensive front at the Saints. The Carolina Panthers are getting little in the way of quarterback pressure from free-agent signing Stephen Weatherly, who is becoming something of a disappointment.

This puts even more pressure on the shoulders of Brian Burns, who has taken a huge second-year leap and is one of the best all-around defensive ends in the NFL. One player alone cannot do it all and if Weatherly continues to struggle against a quality offensive line, then it is going to hamper the Carolina Panthers considerably.

Haynes has done well during his time on the field so far. He has two sacks, three quarterback hits, two tackles for loss, and five pressures from just 26 percent of Carolina’s defensive snaps. This represents some good production from the player, which is further reflected in his encouraging 54.1 grade from Pro Football Focus.

There will come a time when the Panthers will look for a change at the starting position if Weatherly extends his lack of production in terms of sacks in the coming weeks. The former seventh-round pick has one more pressure than Haynes having played almost twice as much, but his run support is improving with every passing game which is a factor that cannot be overlooked.

Haynes needs to make the most out of his chances when they come, which will only enhance his chances of an extended role going forward.