4 secret weapons on the Carolina Panthers in 2022

Which Carolina Panthers players could emerge as secret weapons when a vital 2022 season for the franchise gets underway?

There is an enormous sense of intrigue surrounding the Carolina Panthers heading into training camp. If things weren’t dramatic enough, the team also acquired Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns to further enhance the microscope on what promises to be a fascinating few weeks at Wofford College.

The stakes couldn’t be much higher for the Panthers next season. After accumulating just 15 wins over the last three campaigns, fans are growing tired of treading water and this is something that has to change despite a challenging-looking schedule to overcome.

It seems as if morale is high. But every single player must make a contribution in some form to help head coach Matt Rhule throughout a make-or-break third year.

With this in mind, here are four players that could emerge as secret weapons for the Panthers in 2022.

Player No. 1

Phil Hoskins – Carolina Panthers DT

After gaining some experience on the defensive line rotation later in the 2021 campaign, Phil Hoskins will be looking to further establish himself with the Carolina Panthers next season. Something the former seventh-round pick could be capable of based on flashes last time around.

Hoskins looked impressive against the run and generated meaningful pressure when opportunities arose, resulting in his first career sack at the Miami Dolphins. There is a chance for the Kentucky product to push himself up the depth chart if everything goes well, which could make him a surprise most teams won’t see coming.

There is a lot to like about Hoskins from a physical standpoint. But convincing the coaching staff he is worthy of more involvement remains his biggest obstacle.