5 Panthers fighting for their futures after unofficial depth chart release
By Dean Jones
Troy Pride Jr. – Carolina Panthers CB
- LCB4 on Panthers unofficial depth chart
It wasn’t the easiest of adjustments for Troy Pride Jr. during his rookie campaign. The Carolina Panthers perhaps used the fourth-round pick more than they intended due to a lack of depth at the position, meaning the raw prospect was found out on multiple occasions during what became a baptism of fire.
Pride gets a fresh start this offseason. Even though the level of competition around the Notre Dame product has significantly improved at cornerback.
Donte Jackson, free-agent signing A.J. Bouye, and No. 8 overall selection Jaycee Horn will hold down starting positions. However, any hopes Pride had for involvement look bleak judging by the Panthers’ unofficial depth chart.
Rashaan Melvin and Stantley Thomas-Oliver III are sitting ahead of Pride at the left cornerback position. So the player needs to have a sensational preseason to alter perceptions.
At least from a skill perspective, Pride has a lot going for him. His speed is top-end in NFL terms and has the athleticism to match, even though his coverage ability does need some work.
An early parting of the ways with Pride would see the Panthers save themselves $780,000 and acquire a dead-cap figure of $194,371. Therefore, the decision about whether he makes the 53-man roster will not be a financial one.