Which Carolina Panthers role players have the potential to make or break the 2022 season?
Unless every single member of the Carolina Panthers pulls together in the face of adversity, things won’t get any better in 2022. The early signs are positive during offseason workouts, with spirits high and expectations increasing about what this young group could potentially do next time around.
Carolina has a stern schedule to overcome and it’s essential they get off to a fast start. Recruitment has been decent in free agency and the draft, but some questions remain within certain positional groups which could hold the Panthers back when it’s all said and done.
The upcoming training camp in Spartanburg will tell us a lot about what to expect. But whatever Carolina decides for their 53-man roster, everyone needs to make a contribution from top to bottom.
With this in mind, here are four Panthers role players with the potential to make or break the 2022 season.
Role Player No. 1
Cory Littleton – Carolina Panthers LB
The Carolina Panthers are crying out for assistance at linebacker. Luke Kuechly’s presence is sorely missed and unless someone steps up to fill the void, it will once again become an area of weakness next season.
Cory Littleton’s arrival comes with intrigue. The former Pro Bowler excels in coverage, which will help tremendously, but just how much he can contribute might have a bigger impact than many anticipated depending on what happens with Damien Wilson following his recent arrest.
Littleton has the athleticism and experience to make a difference. If he cannot, then expect opposing defenses to target the second-level interior constantly.