5 Panthers who must get more playing time in Week 7 at the Giants

Yetur Gross-Matos – Carolina Panthers DL

Although Yetur Gross-Matos didn’t fill up the stat sheet against the Minnesota Vikings, the player did show flashes of what he is capable of during his time on the field.

It’s been another frustrating start to the season for the defensive lineman thanks to injury. But providing the Penn State product came through the game unscathed it might be worth the Carolina Panthers putting more on his shoulders in Week 7.

Gross-Matos is being used across the defensive front both as an edge rusher and a three-technique on the interior in obvious pass-rushing situations.

Carolina found life difficult generating pressure on Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins. So it might be worth coordinator Phil Snow throwing some different individuals at the Giants to cause confusion.

The 2020 second-round pick has been the subject of trade speculation as the Panthers seek additional offensive line help before the deadline. That would be extremely harsh on the player who does look like he’ll be able to contribute if he can stay healthy for a prolonged period.

There could be more playing time coming Gross-Matos’ way in the not-too-distant future. Whether he can do enough to cement himself as a key rotational piece is another matter.