5 initial observations from Panthers unofficial 2021 depth chart
By Dean Jones
What are some initial observations from the first unofficial depth chart released by the Carolina Panthers ahead of the 2021 season?
There was plenty of excitement as the Carolina Panthers released their first unofficial depth chart of the offseason. This comes just a few short days from the team taking the field at Lucas Oil Stadium for a warmup game at the Indianapolis Colts, which should tell us a little more about what we can expect from Matt Rhule’s men in 2021.
It’s just the first stage of the selection process, obviously. But it’s the best indicator we have yet as to what players are impressing the Panthers coaching staff after the first two weeks of training camp.
How certain players get on in the preseason should see things shift before final cuts are made. There is also the unfortunate prospect of injuries taking their toll in the three fixtures before Week 1.
A lot can happen between now and when Carolina takes on the New York Jets at Bank of America Stadium. Here are five initial observations regarding the Panthers unofficial depth chart release.
Observation No. 1
J.J. Jansen winning Carolina Panthers LS battle?
The Panthers didn’t draft long snapper Thomas Fletcher in the sixth round for the Alabama product to sit on the sidelines. Judging by the rookie’s talent, it’s unlikely he’d go through waivers if Carolina wanted to stash him on the practice squad during the regular season.
This left plenty of pressure on the shoulders of J.J. Jansen, the team’s longest-serving player by a considerable margin and a model of consistency during his spell with the organization.
At least for now, Jansen is doing enough to be considered as LS1 on the unofficial depth chart. But this is a situation worth keeping an eye on in the coming weeks.