4 key factors to monitor during Carolina Panthers 2022 preseason opener

Which Carolina Panthers DT seizes their opportunity?

It does appear as if the Carolina Panthers are in need of defensive line assistance heading into the 2022 season. While the starters look assured, there could be some depth issues if one or two fall victim to the injury bug throughout the campaign.

Just how this unit is deployed in their preseason opener will be telling. Matt Ioannidis and Derrick Brown could start at defensive tackle, but they are unlikely to be involved all that heavily given their importance to the Panthers when competitive action arrives.

The battle for backup positions behind the expected starting duo will be one of the more fascinating elements to monitor throughout the preseason. Daviyon Nixon and Phil Hoskins are sure to fancy their chances after flashing as rookies, with third-year-pro Bravvion Roy also set to get plenty of reps as he looks to carve out a similar role for himself.

The wildcard is Marquan McCall, a stout run presence that fits into the nose tackle category. This is something the Panthers didn’t really have last season and if the Kentucky product shines in a gameday environment, it will give influential figures within the organization plenty to consider in this key area of the field.

This time of year is always about seizing opportunities. Something that definitely applies to those looking to make an impact on the defensive line interior in Carolina.