4 Carolina Panthers players who must realize their potential in 2022

Yetur Gross-Matos – Carolina Panthers DE

With Haason Reddick’s pass-rushing prowess no longer at the Carolina Panthers’ disposal, the onus will be on others to step up and fill the void when one considers the lack of recruitment across the defensive line this offseason.

This means good news for Yetur Gross-Matos, who is set to fill starting duties opposite Brian Burns on the defensive line and could see a significant upturn in reps if everything goes well. The former Penn State standout has done enough throughout his time on the rotation to warrant a promotion of sorts, even if his first two years in Carolina have been frustrated by injuries and a spell on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Gross-Matos was taken at No. 38 overall in 2020 for a reason. He is physical, explosive, and can impact the game on all three downs against the run or getting after opposing quarterbacks.

The Panthers are relying on Gross-Matos more than ever before. A responsibility that the player needs to take head-on and alleviate some pressure from Burns and Brown along the way.

There is a chance that the Panthers acquire another veteran edge defender before training camp. But regardless of who comes on board, Gross-Matos must realize his potential this season – the penultimate of his rookie deal.

If things go according to plan or better than anticipated, then it could see Gross-Matos get a new deal next spring.