4 Carolina Panthers players who exceeded expectations vs. Lions
By Dean Jones
Jermaine Carter – Carolina Panthers LB
Jermaine Carter finally got his chance to occupy a starting role on defense and took full advantage. The linebacker was used sparingly by the Carolina Panthers during the first half of the season and it’s clear the player is looking to make up for some lost time.
Such was the level of impact Carter made against the Lions, it seems bizarre that he hasn’t been used more. This bears more significance when one considers just how much free-agent signing Tahir Whitehead has struggled from the moment he stepped on the field in Carolina.
Carter was everywhere at the second level, which is something that the Panthers haven’t had from their middle linebacker since Luke Kuechly hung up his cleats following the 2019 campaign. This more than exceeded what was expected of the former fifth-round pick and should ensure that the position is his for the remaining five games.
Not only did Carter catch the eye from an individual perspective. But Shaq Thompson also looked like a different player by having a competent middle linebacker alongside him.
Couple this with the phenomenal presence of Jeremy Chinn at the other outside linebacker spot and the Panthers might have a trio that can make a significant difference as they look to build on their most impressive win of the season by a considerable margin.