5 Panthers players who need to step up after COVID-19 concerns

Efe Obada – Carolina Panthers DL

Things looked bleak for Efe Obada with the Carolina Panthers at one stage this season. General manager Marty Hurney admitted taking a “calculated risk” when he put the defensive lineman on waivers before bringing him back almost instantly as a practice squad player, which seems to have lit a spark under him in no uncertain terms.

Obada worked incredibly hard to work his way back not only onto the active roster but as a prominent part of the rotation. His pass-rushing ability from the interior has been a notable feature of the Nigerian-born player’s contribution and there might be more in the way of reps coming his way if Derrick Brown and Zach Kerr are forced to sit out against the Broncos.

This is a challenge that Obada is sure to relish. His story is an inspiring one and something that ensures the takes absolutely nothing for granted and this has seen his influence steadily increase with every passing game.

The popular figure has 3.5 sacks, 14 tackles, 11 quarterback hits, three tackles, for loss, and 12 pressures from his efforts so far this season. If Obada can impress with more playing time in Week 14 and possibly beyond, it will put him in a strong position to earn another deal with the organization to stick around in 2021.