7 key position battles to watch at Panthers training camp in 2021

Carolina Panthers DT2

• DaQuan Jones, Morgan Fox, Bravvion Roy, Daviyon Nixon

There is no doubting who is atop the Carolina Panthers defensive tackle depth chart. Derrick Brown looks to be a stud in the making after an outstanding rookie campaign that leaves plenty of reasons to be encouraged about Pro Bowl-caliber production in 2021 and beyond.

Getting someone more consistent alongside Brown on the interior will also help. The Panthers got their hands on a couple of nice free-agent pieces and a draft pick that comes with a significant amount of upside with a smooth transition to the pro ranks.

This should mean the competition for places will be fierce at training camp. DaQuan Jones appears to be the front-runner to secure the DT2 position judging by his previous performances with the Tennessee Titans, with the veteran bringing some stout run-stopping to the fore that should make all the difference.

If Jones struggles for whatever reason, others will be waiting to swoop.

Bravvion Roy showed some flashes of quality in his first year at the next level. Something it’s vital he builds on in the coming weeks and when things get more serious in the regular season.

Ignoring the potential of Daviyon Nixon would be an error.

The lineman was given a second-round grade by most analysts before character concerns caused a sharp fall into the fifth round. If the Iowa product can focus on football and nothing else, then solid reps in Year 1 might not be far behind.