5 players the Panthers can’t risk sneaking on their practice squad in 2021

Phil Hoskins – Carolina Panthers DT

The Carolina Panthers rounded off a hugely successful 2021 NFL Draft by taking defensive tackle Phil Hoskins in the seventh round. This gives the defense another big-bodied interior lineman who could contribute with a smooth transition, although asking too much of the Kentucky product in his rookie year would be pushing things just a little.

Hoskins might be a work in progress that needs further time to hone his skills. There is a lot to go off from a physical standpoint, with the player’s enthusiasm and fun-loving nature sure to fit in well within the locker room.

However, there is no room for sentiment when selecting a 53-man roster. The Panthers have plenty of quality options at defensive tackle and it’s going to take a monumental effort from Hoskins to force his way onto the rotation initially.

That’s not to say he cannot do it in the future. Hoskins has the sort of athleticism that’s only going to get better in the pros, so it’s a tricky situation for Carolina to a certain extend.

Gambling with the prospect of putting Hoskins on their practice squad is a risk. Teams were reportedly taking a look at the prospect with a late-round pick, so they might be tempted to acquire him if he ends up on the waiver wire.