5 key observations from the Panthers preseason win vs. Steelers
By Dean Jones
Spencer Brown stakes his claim
With both Rodney Smith and Reggie Bonnafon sitting out yet more time, there was another opportunity for Spencer Brown to stake a claim for the Carolina Panthers roster with carries in the second half.
He made the most of it.
Brown’s solid motor and impressive burst saw him generate some significant yardage from just 11 carries after Chuba Hubbard took a back seat after the break. The undrafted free agent out of UAB has made his presence felt throughout training camp and even if he doesn’t make the team, the player can leave knowing that he gave it absolutely everything.
Just what the Panthers are going to do with Bonnafon and Smith is unclear. But if the third running back spot behind Christian McCaffrey and Hubbard was still undecided heading into the preseason finale, Brown might have tipped the scales in his favor.
The back rushed for 57 yards and one 20-yard touchdown that featured some outstanding blocking from Deonte Brown and Giovanni Ricci. A performance like this won’t go unnoticed by those in power and it’s not a flash in the pan considering what the rookie showcased in the 2021 preparation period.
It’s another big call for the staff. But a nice problem to have all the same.