Grading Panthers position groups on defense ahead of 2022 camp
By Dean Jones
How are the Carolina Panthers position groups looking on defense ahead of an important minicamp and training camp for the organization?
Now that the main recruitment period has been and gone for the Carolina Panthers, it’s time for the coaching staff to put a new-look roster through their paces ahead of what promises to be yet another fascinating campaign for the franchise.
It’s been an encouraging offseason barring some departures and the obvious questions centering on team owner David Tepper, who is under the microscope more than ever. Everything has to go well for the Panthers on a tough-looking schedule, but the talent is there providing those associated with the organization rise to the occasion and show full commitment right from the outset.
Defensively, things improved slightly last season. Although the offensive side of things did them no favors, Phil Snow’s unit looked the part more often than not and this could see the group come of age when competitive action begins this fall.
On this topic, we took a look at and graded each Panthers positional group on defense ahead of mandatory minicamp and training camp.
Defensive Tackle
Carolina Panthers DTs
The Carolina Panthers lost DaQuan Jones in free agency when the veteran opted for a move to the Buffalo Bills. But there is more than enough within this group to suggest it can play a big part in proceedings next season.
Matt Ioannidis is familiar with the coaching staff and has proven credentials. Much is also expected of former first-round selection Derrick Brown entering the third campaign of his professional career.
Position Grade: B
Providing the likes of Bravvion Roy, Daviyon Nixon, and Phil Hoskins can also make the necessary improvements this offseason, there is a lot to like about Carolina’s defensive tackle group. Although this all hinges on whether Brown can take a Pro Bowl-type leap next time around.