5 Carolina Panthers players who won’t be on the roster by Week 1
By Dean Jones
Myles Hartsfield – Carolina Panthers DB
Myles Hartsfield was one of the real success stories in terms of development where the Carolina Panthers were concerned last season. Little was expected of the defensive back when he arrived as an undrafted free agent, but a starring showing during training camp saw the prospect force his way into the team’s plans.
Not only this, but Hartsfield also saw time in the starting rotation and more than held his own. This was undoubtedly a big confidence boost for the former Ole Miss player and one he could put to good use this offseason.
However, the task awaiting Hartsfield in the coming weeks is a substantial one.
The Panthers got better across their secondary in free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft, meaning one of the surprise packages from last season needs to raise his game considerably to stand any chance of making a similar impression.
Hartsfield has the physicality and versatility Carolina clearly loves in their defensive players. But players such as Jaycee Horn, A.J. Bouye, and perhaps even Keith Taylor Jr. might go ahead of him on the depth chart.
If he cannot beat out the likes of Troy Pride Jr. and Stantley Thomas-Oliver III for playing time, Hartsfield might be looking for a new home.
Much like Stevens, he is a candidate to be brought back on the practice squad if things don’t work out, although Hartsfield’s production in 2020 might see a couple of waiver claims come his way.