4 Carolina Panthers players facing one final audition at the Bucs in Week 18

Which Carolina Panthers players are facing one final audition when they take the field in Week 18 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

Whether or not the Carolina Panthers can salvage some sort of respectability from the 2021 season is debatable considering they are traveling to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18. This represents a stiff challenge against the defending Super Bowl champions, who easily disposed of Matt Rhule’s squad during their previouss NFC South divisional matchup ust a fortnight ago.

The Panthers could end up with a top-five pick with a loss and a New York Giants win. Although it gives them plenty of options, it further reflects just how far this team has fallen following a 3-0 start.

With little else to play for, there are some on the roster that have plenty at stake. Whether that be trying to secure a new deal, enhancing their status on the depth chart, or simply holding onto a starting spot – certain individuals have to make the final game count before a critical offseason begins.

On this topic, we picked out four Panthers players getting one final audition in Week 18 for differing reasons.

Player No. 1

Pat Elflein – Carolina Panthers C

Although Pat Elflein’s switch to the center position has come with some improved production, whether it’s enough for the veteran to earn the starting job in 2022 is still up in the air. The former Ohio State star is clearly more comfortable in this position and a solid performance at the Buccaneers might result in the Carolina Panthers giving him another shot and turning their attentions elsewhere regarding recruitment this offseason.

Considering they have a shot at taking Iowa’s stud prospect Tyler Linderbaum, this is a big call to make. But the Panthers clearly like Elflein enough that this potential scenario cannot be ruled out.

Holding his own against a stout Tampa Bay defense front would do his chances the world of good.