7 key position battles to watch at Panthers training camp in 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers LG1
- Pat Elflein, Brady Christensen, Deonte Brown, David Moore
As stated previously, the protection in front of Sam Darnold is something of a worry heading into the season. That might even be an understatement.
Things should be pretty solid on the right side with stud tackle Taylor Moton and John Miller. Matt Paradis must also raise his game at the center spot to give the Carolina Panthers another massive boost to an area that’s been a revolving door of late.
It’s the left side that poses the most concern. We’ve already discussed the potential complications on the edge, which makes it even more important things are solidified on the interior.
This appears another open battle from the outside looking in.
Veteran free-agent Pat Elflein joined the Panthers this spring after struggling over the last two seasons. Whether he can turn things around at this stage is highly debatable.
If the Panthers decide to go younger in pursuit of progression, there are options. Brady Christensen was given a second-round grade at guard by those in power before the team moved up to acquire him in Round 3. He might be the favorite with a strong camp.
Mammoth lineman Deonte Brown comes with substantial upside and there will be plenty of eyes on undrafted free agent David Moore as he looks to stake a claim at training camp.