5 surprising candidates to make the Panthers 53-man roster in 2022
By Dean Jones
Chris Westry – Carolina Panthers CB
The Carolina Panthers look to have a promising cornerback unit that will be bolstered by Jaycee Horn’s return and Steve Wilks returning to coach the secondary. One could even make a case for this group being the roster’s strongest if everyone meets their targets.
Working on the assumption that Horn, Donte Jackson, C.J. Henderson, and Keith Taylor are locks to make the team, that leaves one or two more places up for grabs depending on how the Panthers plan to utilize their versatile defensive back, Myles Hartsfield.
One player that’s made a strong case early in the offseason period is Chris Westry. The former Baltimore Raven was acquired on the cheap in free agency and his 6-foot-4 frame could be a nice asset to call upon in 2022.
Westry turned out in 45 percent of the Ravens’ defensive snaps last season, giving up 62.1% of targets thrown his way. He also conceded a 118.6 passer rating when targeted and was not kept around.
Although this was disappointing, Westry has taken this latest challenge head-on and given himself a chance. A few notable plays in training camp and the preseason could further tip the scales in his favor.