5 Carolina Panthers players with lots at stake during preseason finale

Cam Erving – Carolina Panthers OT

Cam Erving’s had a rough ride since joining the Carolina Panthers in free agency. Without playing a competitive down for the franchise, some media analysts and fans have already written off his chances of becoming a reliable left tackle in 2021.

This skepticism is justified where Erving is concerned. His production protecting the edge since arriving at the next level as a first-round pick doesn’t exactly scream optimism, so he’s got a big task on his hands both during his time on the field against the Pittsburgh Steelers and when the regular season finally gets here.

Erving got his first taste of life in Carolina from a gameday standpoint versus the Baltimore Ravens, playing in one series and holding his own. What comes next for the player is equally if not more important with additional reps for the projected starting lineup on Friday.

There’s little doubt Erving will be scrutinized more than most.

The former Florida State star already has his back against the wall to a certain extent. So the only thing that’s going to alter perceptions is reliability and consistency in equal measure.

Getting off on the right foot in the face of Pittsburgh’s solid front seven that might be lacking their prominent players is a good place to start. Simply put, Erving has to hit the ground running and take some immediate pressure off before the campaign.