4 silver linings from the Panthers loss vs. the Vikings in Week 6

Keith Taylor – Carolina Panthers CB

With C.J. Henderson inactive for the Carolina Panthers due to a shoulder problem, there was some additional responsibility on Keith Taylor Jr.’s shoulders in Week 6 against a Minnesota Vikings passing attack that’s loaded with playmakers.

Not exactly the easiest of tasks for a rookie cornerback that’s been used sparingly so far.

As it turned out, it proved to be the making of Taylor, who was absolutely fantastic in the face of high-quality opposition such as Pro Bowl duo Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson.

There were one of two errors, which weren’t unexpected. But Taylor’s ability in press coverage and the fact he wasn’t overawed by the occasion speaks volumes about his temperament and the player’s long-term prospects.

Just where the Washington product goes from here is uncertain. Taylor performed well on Sunday, but with Henderson set to return and All-Pro Stephon Gilmore coming off the physically unable to perform list soon, it’s hard to envisage a substantial role for the fifth-round pick unless injury strikes.

If Taylor does get relegated to a special teams role once again, he at least now has some solid production in a starting or rotational role to call upon. A big confidence boost for a player with bags of potential.