4 Panthers players who must see playing time moving forward

Bravvion Roy – Carolina Panthers DT

Bravvion Roy was taken in the sixth round by the Carolina Panthers and has been thrust into a spot on the rotation. This is down in no small part to the absence of Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kawann Short, who has probably played his last game for the organization after going on the reserve/injured list with a shoulder injury.

Roy might not have expected this, at least initially. Much like Stantley Thomas-Oliver, he was seen as a development project who could take his game to new heights working with his college coach Matt Rhule at the next level.

His introduction into the lineup has come with some growing pains, as reflected by his 35.9 grade from Pro Football Focus. Roy has been on the field for 27 percent of the Panthers’ defensive snaps and has nine combined tackles, six solo tackles, one quarterback hit, and one pressure.

One concerning aspect of Roy’s play has been tackling, which is also something that will probably improve over time. The lineman needs more reps for the Panthers to see just how his skill set can assist them going forward. But nobody will know more about what he brings to the table than Rhule.

No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown needs a long-term partner alongside him on the interior. Only time will tell as to whether Roy is the answer.