Panthers depth chart: Pre-camp 53-man roster projection for 2021

Carolina Panthers depth chart: Special Teams

• Joey Slye (K), Joseph Charlton (P), Thomas Fletcher (LS).

This critical element of play is going to come with a potentially big change and something not seen on the Carolina Panthers for quite some time. J.J. Jansen is the team’s longest-serving player by a considerable margin, but he faces a significant fight to keep his job during training camp.

Former Alabama long-snapper Thomas Fletcher was as surprised as anybody when the Panthers opted to select him in the sixth round. They had 11 selections after a flurry of trade activity, so those in power decided to bring him in rather than run the risk of missing out on the player during undrafted free agency.

It promises to be a fascinating clash between the wily veteran and the young upstart looking to take his place. However, the Panthers didn’t draft Fletcher only to release him after a few weeks, so we’re betting on a changing of the guard.

The Panthers’ depth chart looks pretty set in the other two special teams’ positions. Joey Slye will get one final chance to prove he is a viable long-term kicking option, but the third-year-pro is going to be on an extremely short leash when competitive action gets underway.

Punter Joseph Charlton was an undrafted free-agent find by Carolina and proved that opportunities can be secured providing the production matches or exceeds expectations. Something that can stand the Panthers in superb stead for years to come.