4 silver linings from Carolina Panthers’ defeat vs. Washington in Week 11
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers bringing Stephon Gilmore along
It’s been a work in progress for Stephon Gilmore since he was activated following 10 months off the field with a torn quad. The All-Pro cornerback has certainly made a big impression during the snaps allocated by the Carolina Panthers, with Sunday’s game against the Washington Football Team representing another step in the right direction.
Gilmore was in the lineup for 55 percent of the team’s defensive snaps. This is the highest total since his trade from the New England Patriots and providing there are no ill effects with further progression next weekend, it should see the player become more of a focal point after the bye week.
There is no denying the attributes Gilmore brings to the table. Carolina’s fanbase was crying out to see more of the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year after Terry McLaurin began giving Donte Jackson a torrid time, which didn’t materialize as expected.
When Gilmore was shadowing McLaurin, he was less of a problem. But the Panthers didn’t go away from their original plan with the South Carolina product.
This at least shows what a key component he is to whatever success comes the team’s way between now and the end of the season. What comes after that is unclear, but the Panthers would be wise to work out a deal as erasers like Gilmore don’t grow on trees.