Which Carolina Panthers players bolstered their stock in a big way during the team’s preseason Week 1 win at the Washington Commanders?
Now the dust has settled on an encouraging first preseason game for the Carolina Panthers, influential figures within the organization are looking at their options and deciphering where each fits in 2022. Many established players sat out at the Washington Commanders, which resulted in some less heralded pieces stepping up to attain the victory.
The Panthers will already have a pretty good idea of who to take through into Week 1, who could potentially make the practice squad, and what more is needed in terms of depth.
Saturday’s performance was a mixture of impressive play and poor execution. This indicates there is still much work ahead in the coming weeks before clashing with the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium.
For some, the game was a chance to earn additional brownie points. With this in mind, here are five Panthers players with soaring stock after their preseason opener.
Player No. 1
Austen Pleasants – Carolina Panthers OT
While some on the Carolina Panthers offensive line struggled to make the impression needed, the same cannot be said of Austen Pleasants. The edge protector was one who caught the eye more than most with a polished display both on running downs and in pass-sets, which has done his chances of making the roster a significant amount of good.
Pleasants is an imposing figure at 6-foot-7 and plays with ruthlessness that’s hard not to love. There appears to be an open spot as Taylor Moton’s primary backup at the right tackle spot, which the Ohio product could fill if he continues this exceptional production over the final two preseason contests.