5 Panthers players whose hype train is rolling entering 2022 season

Which Carolina Panthers players have their hype train rolling ahead of what promises to be a fascinating 2022 season?

We are just a few short days from the Carolina Panthers getting their 2022 campaign underway against the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium. The first step in what will hopefully become a profitable season for the organization after so much recent underachievement.

There is optimism surrounding the Panthers after a strong period of recruitment and enhanced morale within the locker room. Carolina’s camp looked more organized than at any stage during Matt Rhule’s reign and they also managed to pick up two preseason wins to further boost confidence.

Picking up some early momentum is important for the Panthers. Five of their first seven games are on home soil and unless Rhule can get some wins in the column, another brutal campaign could be in the offing.

With that being said, here are five Panthers players whose hype train is rolling entering the 2022 season.

Player No. 1

Brandon Smith – Carolina Panthers LB

After a standout summer littered with exceptional plays, there is a lot to like about Brandon Smith’s chances of making a significant impact as a rookie. The fourth-round pick adjusted extremely well to the professional ranks in camp and more than held his own throughout the Carolina Panthers’ preseason games for good measure.

Smith is explosive and athletic in equal measure. There is still some work to do in terms of positioning, but the physical attributes to become a successful starter over time are evident.

Momentum is growing where Smith is concerned. Something that could see the Penn State product occupy a starting berth as the season goes on.