4 Panthers players facing a make or break preparation period in 2022

Deonte Brown – Carolina Panthers OL

The Carolina Panthers struck with conviction to boost their worst positional group during the offseason. No fewer than three new starters arrived on the offensive line in free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft, which also included a franchise left tackle after Ikem Ekwonu fell out of the top five and into their laps.

Taylor Moton’s place in the lineup is a lock. This leaves just the left guard spot to fight for in training camp with multiple candidates set to fancy their chances of securing the job.

One name that will generate more scrutiny than others is Deonte Brown. The former sixth-round pick out of Alabama has all the tools needed to make a real go of things at the next level, but weight concerns and a longer adjustment than anticipated made it almost a redshirt rookie year for the player in 2021.

This offseason is of critical importance for Brown, who has to make a bigger impression on the depth chart and also catch the eye of new offensive line coach James Campen in the process.

Not exactly the easiest of tasks. But if Brown can keep his weight in check, show the right attitude and make the most of reps when they come, more involvement next time around is well within his capabilities.