4 position battles to watch in Carolina Panthers 2022 training camp
By Luke Gray
Carolina Panthers CB3
- C.J. Henderson vs. Keith Taylor Jr.
Two more players who seem to be moving in opposite directions.
Keith Taylor Jr. exceeded expectations despite being made to play a larger role than originally anticipated due to injuries. As for C.J. Henderson, who came over in an early season trade, the play wasn’t to the level of someone drafted No. 9 overall in 2020.
This is a big year for Henderson as the Carolina Panthers must decide next offseason whether or not they want to pick up the player’s fifth-year option. What we saw from the Florida product in 2020 suggests that’s something they may be hesitant to do unless drastic improvements are made.
The third cornerback slot on the depth chart is certainly up for grabs. Jaycee Horn and Donte Jackson are the undisputed starting tandem, but what happens below them is less certain.
Henderson was always touted by general manager Scott Fitterer as something of a project. But questions have been asked whether or not the cornerback has the desire to truly make a name for himself at the next level.
However, with the addition of Steve Wilks as Carolina’s new defensive backs coach, he can work with these two young players potentially getting the best out of both in training camp and throughout the upcoming season.