5 Carolina Panthers players facing an uphill battle at training camp
By Dean Jones
Stantley Thomas-Oliver III – CB
Much like the situation with Myles Hartsfield, there were some real positives to take from Stantley Thomas-Oliver III’s first season with the Carolina Panthers.
The cornerback more than held his own when introduced onto the rotation despite the obvious blips along the way. This could lead to bigger and better things in the future with more development.
Thomas-Oliver is still relatively new to the position after transferring from a wide receiver at Florida International. His athleticism is off the charts, even though he can be a little naive in terms of anticipating routes.
The Panthers roster looks far stronger at corner than at any stage in 2020. Jaycee Horn, A.J. Bouye, Keith Taylor Jr., and Rashaan Melvin all come into the fold and should make their presence felt, leaving Thomas-Oliver with much work to do to remain part of Carolina’s plans.
This all comes down to how much Thomas-Oliver and Troy Pride Jr. – rookie players last year – progress their respective games this offseason.
The Panthers were right not to wait around in the hope of substantial improvements. So the ball is in their court now as they look to carve up a future with the franchise.
High stakes for both parties. But it might be Thomas-Oliver who has the most work to do.