5 lively outsiders to make the Carolina Panthers roster in 2021
By Dean Jones
Doug Middleton – Carolina Panthers S
Although Doug Middleton hasn’t been around the set-up for long, the veteran safety has flashed on occasions and now survived two rounds of cuts for good measure. What comes next will be more important, but for the player to still be in with a shout at this stage is a testament to how well he’s adjusted since joining the Carolina Panthers.
Middleton has a little more experience than most acquired throughout training camp. The former Appalachian State star turned out in 10 games for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, albeit from a rotational role appearing in 43 percent of special teams snaps.
His last career start came in 2018 on the New York Jets, but Middleton has carved out a solid role for himself and the Panthers need all the help they can get in the special team game currently.
There appears to be some doubt around just who is going to back up the projected starting safety tandem of Jeremy Chinn and Juston Burris. Sam Franklin’s enjoyed a fine camp and should have a key role to play on the rotation, but the recent injury to Kenny Robinson has left things up in the air to a certain extent.
Middleton might now fancy his chances, make no mistake about that. This situation is something he knows how to handle and should provide him with enough nous to ensure a serious discussion is had within Carolina’s decision-makers.