4 second-year Panthers players that must make more noise in 2022

Keith Taylor Jr. – Carolina Panthers CB

Little was expected of Keith Taylor Jr. when the Carolina Panthers selected the cornerback in Round No. 5 in 2021. However, an early injury to Jaycee Horn meant the former Washington stud was thrust into the rotation much sooner than anticipated.

Taylor was not overawed by this sharp increase in responsibility. In fact, it seemed to be the making of him en route to an immensely encouraging rookie campaign.

Although there were some moments of struggle for Taylor – which isn’t uncommon for first-year players at the position – he coped extremely well overall and there is just no telling how much this experience is going to benefit him long term.

Carolina re-signed Donte Jackson and Horn is expected to make a full recovery from a broken foot. But if Taylor can also demonstrate improvements during the offseason, then he might end up beating out C.J. Henderson to the No. 3 depth chart role.

This is a nice problem to have for the Panthers. Especially in the modern-day NFL where passing attacks are becoming more and more prevalent with every passing year.

Hopes are high for Taylor next season and possibly beyond. If the right adjustments are made, then this is another late-round gem that general manager Scott Fitterer can add to his ever-growing list.