5 under-the-radar Panthers players who must perform vs. NY Jets

Yetur Gross-Matos – Carolina Panthers DE

Even though it appears as if Yetur Gross-Matos won’t be listed as a starter, the defensive end should still see plenty of reps throughout the season. Last year’s No. 38 overall selection has flashed once again during his time on the field in preseason games, with is something the Carolina Panthers also saw from the Penn State product as a rookie.

Gross-Matos didn’t have the best luck in 2020 thanks to injury, concussion, and a spell on the COVID-19 list. However, there is a real opportunity to make his presence felt with plenty of upgrades across the front seven.

Opposing protection schemes will rightfully focus their attention on the likes of Derrick Brown, Brian Burns, and Haason Reddick. Ignoring what DaQuan Jones and Morgan Fox can do also wouldn’t be too smart.

This means Gross-Matos could see plenty of one-on-one looks. Something that could see a surge in numbers providing the injury bug doesn’t bit the promising edge rusher once again in his second professional season.

Expect to see Gross-Matos across the defensive line against the New York Jets. His versatility to play any of the defensive end positions, as a stand-up outside linebacker, or even as a three-technique make him a useful asset for Phil Snow to call upon.