5 Carolina Panthers players with lots at stake during preseason finale
By Dean Jones
Rashaan Melvin – Carolina Panthers CB
It’s been a solid if not spectacular start for Rashaan Melvin with the Carolina Panthers. The cornerback has worked his way into the rotation gradually after opting out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 health concerns, but there does appear to be an opportunity for him to make the team judging by recent injuries and other concerns.
Troy Pride Jr. going down with an ACL tear was a blow to the depth chart. Even though the Notre Dame product wasn’t expected to play a huge role in 2021.
Couple this with A.J. Bouye also missing a considerable period of time, and Melvin might get a shot with the first-team unit on Friday alongside Donte Jackson and No. 8 overall selection Jaycee Horn.
If this scenario comes to fruition, it’s something Melvin has to take full advantage of.
His future with the franchise depends on it.
Melvin has the size, length, and athleticism to potentially contribute. Having two prolific cover corners to lean on is also something working in the player’s favor.
It would be a huge surprise if Melvin didn’t make the team at this stage. Although he won’t know for sure until the final cuts and inevitable waiver wire pickups are made before Week 1.
However, his production against the Steelers could dictate just how involved Melvin will be during the regular season.