5 Carolina Panthers players who won’t be on the roster by Week 1

Austin Larkin – Carolina Panthers DE

The high energy and enthusiasm demonstrated by Austin Larkin on the defensive front in 2020 did not go unnoticed by the Carolina Panthers. They opted to give him a one-year extension with no guaranteed money, which gives the player a shot at making the 53-man roster once again.

Only time will tell as to whether Larkin can build on a largely positive first season in Carolina. There were some nice moments during the nine games he turned out in – which should serve him well – but this offseason has seen the Panthers strengthen their options across the front seven a considerable amount.

This bears even more significance on the defensive front. Haason Reddick, Morgan Fox, and DaQuan Jones arrived in free agency and should all play their part, with fifth-round pick Daviyon Nixon also having plenty of upside providing he can alleviate some concerns about his character,

Nothing much is expected of Larkin, which he could use to his advantage. The coaching staff also know they could potentially rely on him judging by his time on the field in 2020, although it’s hard to envisage a situation where he’s given a roster spot with the talent also vying for places.

Much will depend on how much Larkin benefits from the experience gained last season. But the chance of him making the 53 is remote.