5 key observations from Carolina Panthers 2022 preseason finale vs. Bills
By Dean Jones
Marquan McCall has given the Carolina Panthers plenty to think about
The Carolina Panthers are looking for someone on the defensive line to make a jump onto the rotation next season. They are a little short of options – especially on the edge – so any help the team can get from those already on the roster, the better.
One player that has done his chances no end of good this offseason is Marquan McCall. The imposing defensive tackle arrived in Carolina as an undrafted free agent, but a series of eye-catching displays during the preseason means those in power within the organization have a big decision to make regarding his roster status.
McCall left another good impression in Carolina’s preseason finale, generating pressure and using his stout frame to become a force against the run for good measure. Whether this is enough for the Kentucky product to make the 53-man roster is undecided, but the player couldn’t have done anymore to force his way into the team’s plans.
If the Panthers decide that the likes of Bravvion Roy, Phil Hoskins, and Daviyon Nixon are better options, then stashing McCall on the practice squad is a virtual guarantee at this juncture. However, there is also an increased chance another team takes a long hard look at the lineman given how well he’s performed this offseason.
McCall offers something a little bit different. He’s still rough around the edges, but the rookie could be a player of enormous promise once he puts everything together.