5 under-the-radar Panthers players who must perform vs. NY Jets
By Dean Jones
DaQuan Jones – Carolina Panthers DT
Considering how good DaQuan Jones has been throughout his career, his arrival with the Carolina Panthers has gone relatively overlooked. The stout defensive tackle could make a massive difference alongside Derrick Brown in 2021, which begins against the New York Jets and their new-look interior offensive line led by first-round pick Alijah Vera-Tucker.
The USC product has been running his mouth about the need to get physical.
Good luck with that against two brutes like Jones and Brown.
Jones knows what it’s like being on a team that went from nothing to playoff contention in a hurry. He also played a significant part in the success of the Tennessee Titans over the last couple of seasons.
Setting the right tone on defense will shape Carolina’s season. This all starts in the trenches and two space-eating monsters like Jones and Brown could be the anchor needed for real progress this season.
The Jets don’t have the most formidable interior protection. Although Vera-Tucker comes with a glowing reputation and should make a massive difference long-term.
If Jones performs as he’s capable of in Week 1, then expect the Panthers defense to thrive as a result. Something that could continue long into the season.