5 burning questions facing the Carolina Panthers DL in 2021
By Dean Jones
How strong is the Carolina Panthers DL rotation?
The hallmark of every good team is how good their rotational guys are. Relying on starting-caliber players is all well and good, but the NFL demands strong depth and especially considering the Carolina Panthers are about to embark on a grueling new 17-game schedule.
Although some areas of the roster could use additional reinforcements, things look particularly promising on the defensive front. We’ve already spoken about the potential of Yetur Gross-Matos, but there are many others who could stand up and be counted when opportunities come their way.
Marquis Haynes is a proven contributor from a backup role. The same can also be said of sixth-round pick Bravvion Roy, who more than held his own as a rookie in 2020 and should have a part to play this time around.
Someone like Christian Miller will be like a new signing and the Panthers have thrown plenty his way over the first two preseason games. The Alabama product has the engine and skill set to hit the ground running, with his ability on special teams something else that shouldn’t be overlooked.
There is a growing sense of intrigue surrounding fifth-rounder Daviyon Nixon, who shone during the first two warmup games and has the look of a real draft steal about him by early indications.
One suspects Phil Hoskins to also make the team. But the seventh-rounder might be a work in progress despite an impressive training camp.
All in all, this is an outstanding list of options to compliment what the Panthers start games with.