5 under-the-radar Panthers players that must perform vs. Washington

Which under-the-radar Carolina Panthers players need to make a lasting contribution when they take on the Washington Football Team in Week 11?

One would be hard-pressed to think of a game that Carolina Panthers fans have looked forward to more than this one. Perhaps not since Super Bowl 50 has there been such anticipation.

This has everything to do with the triumphant return of Cam Newton, who is expected to start his first game since re-joining the Panthers against his former head coach Ron Rivera and the Washington Football Team.

Newton coming back has completely reignited the fanbase and the locker room. Not only this, but the former Auburn star made opportunities count en route to two combined touchdowns from nine snaps in Carolina’s sensational win at the Arizona Cardinals in Week 10.

All eyes will be on the quarterback, obviously. But the Panthers need a collective effort to emerge victoriously and get themselves back to a winning record.

With this in mind, here are five under-the-radar Panthers players that must perform against Washington.

Player No. 1

Michael Jordan – Carolina Panthers OG

It’s no coincidence that the Panthers’ fortunes on the offensive line took a step in the right direction when Michael Jordan was installed into the lineup. The former Cincinnati Bengal imposed himself right out of the gate and if this continues over the next seven games, then Carolina would be wise to keep him around beyond this season.

Jordan and the interior protection will have their hands full against Washington this weekend. Although Chase Young and Montez Sweat are missing the game through injury, they do have the stud duo of Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne – two threats that should be taken extremely seriously.

It’s a stern test awaiting Jordan, who needs to provide enough time in the pocket for Cam Newton and create some strong running lanes for Christian McCaffrey in the process.