5 Panthers players who must stand out at mandatory minicamp in 2022

(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Shi Smith
(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Shi Smith /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 5
Next

Which Carolina Panthers players must put in an exceptional showing at the team’s upcoming mandatory minicamp ahead of the 2022 season?

Business is now picking up for the Carolina Panthers as preparations gather pace for the 2022 season. The team’s voluntary OTAs have concluded and everyone associated with the organization is getting ready for a mandatory minicamp this week, which is another big stepping stone toward what will hopefully be a successful campaign.

Whether this comes to fruition or not is another matter. The Panthers have recruited well this offseason, but questions about Matt Rhule’s capabilities as head coach and the lingering concerns at the quarterback position are elements of the equation that could hold Carolina back when it’s all said and done.

It’s absolutely vital that the Panthers hit the ground running to avoid complications down the line. There is also a tremendous amount at stake for certain individuals on the depth chart with their respective futures hanging in the balance.

With this in mind, we picked out five Panthers players that must stand out during the team’s mandatory minicamp in 2022.

Player No. 1

Carolina Panthers
(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Deonte Brown /

Carolina Panthers. DEONTE BROWN. 1. player. 87. . OL

Deonte Brown – Carolina Panthers OL

There remains a level of intrigue surrounding Deonte Brown despite the Carolina Panthers getting almost nothing from the offensive lineman during his rookie campaign. Weight concerns and other factors meant opportunities were at a premium for the sixth-round pick, who was pretty much redshirted aside from seeing the field briefly down the stretch.

Brown has to make a better go of things this offseason and will be put through his paces severely by offensive line coach James Campen. This is a stern test of character for the Alabama product and one he must emerge from in a positive light.

Just one starting spot on the protection is up for grabs. Brown will be given the chance to become influential, but whether he can reach the heights needed remains unclear.