5 unsung heroes from the Panthers’ victory vs. the Saints in Week 2

Sean Chandler – Carolina Panthers S

The Carolina Panthers appear to be loaded on the defensive side of the football. Their starting unit is a force to be reckoned with and could be the NFL’s best when it’s all said and done, but the complementary players on the depth chart are also doing their part over the first fortnight of competitive action.

One name that’s featured prominently is Sean Chandler. The free-agent signing arrived at the Panthers with little in the way of expectations on his shoulders, but a standout showing in training camp and during Carolina’s preseason games secured a roster spot and also a prominent position on the rotation.

Chandler knows the system well having worked with Matt Rhule and Phil Snow at Temple. Something he’s clearly putting to good use when called upon.

His production against the New Orleans Saints resulted in three tackles and even a quarterback hit as Snow dialed up the heat on Jameis Winston throughout. But it’s the way Chandler continues to influence matters in an unassuming way that’s the most impressive thing of all.

Chandler has the versatility to assist on the backend or in the nickel should the Panthers need him. Every contending team needs players like this and from Carolina’s point of view, it’s a trend they hope can continue long into the future.