4 Panthers players who need to step up at Washington
By Dean Jones
Zach Kerr – Carolina Panthers DT
Zach Kerr is out of the dog house and off the reserve/COVID-19 list to boost the Carolina Panthers’ defensive line. The free-agent signing was part of the group that met in a social environment during their bye week which came with some complications once they returned to the team facility. But his presence in the lineup is a major boost after a surprisingly good campaign from the backup turned starter.
Kerr might sit for a play or two, which was the case with other players involved in the gathering. But this might give him some added motivation to prove his worth and importance against an offensive line that does a lot of good work on the interior.
Getting after Dwayne Haskins or Alex Smith is going to be hugely important. This will be more difficult without Brian Burns exploding off the edge. So the likes of Kerr need to raise their game accordingly.
There is plenty on the line for Kerr over the next two games. He is looking to prove beyond all doubt his ability to start alongside No. 7 overall selection Derrick Brown in 2021 and the tackle should be fresh and raring to go following his absence.