3 Panthers position groups that must step up vs. NY Jets in Week 1

Carolina Panthers CBs

What Sam Darnold lacked in his time with the New York Jets – among other things – was a formidable, deep group of wide receivers. It seems the organization has upgraded this unit led by former Tennessee Titan Corey Davis and veteran Jamison Crowder. Rounding out the position are Elijah Moore, Braxton Berrios, Denzel Mims, and Keenan Cole.

Davis and Moore can be matchup nightmares for opposing cornerbacks who have the speed to blow by along with capable hands.

The Carolina Panthers have caught a break with Crowder being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list and unable to play this week. Moore will step into the starting role opposite of Davis.

Donte Jackson headlines the cornerback room as the fourth-year veteran is playing for a contract extension after totaling 10 interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and 148 tackles over the previous three seasons while covering the opposing team’s top threat.

Opposite Jackson, the much-hyped rookie Jaycee Horn will be transitioning from the SEC level to the NFL.

Growing up around the game as the son of NFL WR Joe Horn, the former South Carolina stud has a high football IQ and received praise from coaches and teammates alike.

On nickel or dime coverage, Keith Taylor Jr., Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, and perhaps even safety Jeremy Chinn will all be counted on to slow down the passing attack.

Carolina Panthers vs. NY Jets: Prediction

Opening day across the NFL is always filled with fans anxious to see their team’s offseason work come to fruition. With the playbook finally opening after the preseason and the win/loss column coming into play, it will be vital to see each of these units step up to ensure a 1-0 start on the path back to the playoffs. Panthers 24 – Jets 17.