4 Panthers players who could exceed expectations in 2022 training camp
By Dean Jones
Chris Westry – Carolina Panthers CB
Given all the talent situated within the cornerback room, anyone looking to stake a claim needs to show out from start to finish in training camp. The Carolina Panthers will obviously roll with Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, C.J. Henderson, and Keith Taylor Jr. as their starting quartet, with plenty of competition for places below this foursome that will ultimately come to a head at Wofford College.
One player that might offer something a little different is Chris Westry. His 6-foot-4 frame provides exceptional length and the player’s natural speed enables him to go down the field with opposing wide receivers when called upon.
The Kentucky product turned out seven times for the Baltimore Ravens in 2021, conceding 62.1 percent of targets thrown his way and a 118.6 passer rating. Not exactly ideal, but it’s worth remembering that this was Westry’s first real taste of NFL action.
One area where Westry could help is against the run. He didn’t miss a tackle last season and has enough in the way of instincts to spot a play developing and react accordingly.
Westry will need to hit the ground running with opportunities at a premium. But he’s made a strong start to life with the Panthers and something he could potentially build upon in camp.