Carolina Panthers 53-man roster predictions following 2022 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers STs
- Zane Gonzalez (K), Johnny Hekker (P), Andre Roberts (KR).
Special teams’ play was frustrating more often than not in 2021. But things look far more promising this time around after a change in coaching and some nice recruits acquired in free agency.
Chris Tabor is one of the best special teams coaches around. He has an exceptional track record of getting the most out of his options, which were enhanced significantly by the arrival of All-Pro kick returner Andre Roberts once the 2022 NFL Draft came to an end.
Roberts might be a little long in the tooth, but he still performed at a high level in 2021 and he represents a massive upgrade on Alex Erickson, who occupied the position last season.
Kicker Zane Gonzalez deservedly received a new deal after an almost flawless campaign before it was cut short by injury. Carolina’s punting options also received a welcome boost after the Panthers brought in All-Decade punter Johnny Hekker following his release by the Los Angeles Rams.
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All the pieces are in place for improved production in this area. Tabor also has some electric depth chart pieces to further assist that cannot be overlooked.