5 Panthers players tumbling down depth chart during the preseason

Brandon Zylstra – Carolina Panthers WR

Much like the situation with Rodney Smith, there hasn’t been much wrong with Brandon Zylstra’s contribution during the offseason. The wide receiver has proven a reliable catching presence once again, which didn’t go unnoticed by those in attendance at Wofford College.

This hasn’t translated to preseason action as yet. Zylstra was virtually anonymous for the Carolina Panthers over the first two games, working primarily with the second and third-string units in a big blow to his roster hopes.

Many thought the former CFL star might be in line for a bigger role in 2021 after Curtis Samuel departed in free agency for the Washington Football Team. However, opportunity doesn’t appear to have knocked for long thanks to the acquisitions of Terrace Marshall Jr., David Moore, and Shi Smith.

If one works on the premise that the Panthers take six wideouts onto their roster, it realistically leaves just one place remaining. Zylstra has a shot at earning the role, although Omar Bayless and Keith Kirkwood also fancy their chances.

Even if Zylstra makes the team, his contribution might be limited to special teams. Not what the player had in mind entering another offseason with the organization.

Zylstra hasn’t brought in any of his four targets over the two warmup games so far. With the starters set to play more next Friday, he might be running out of chances.