5 sneaky threats Carolina Panthers must take seriously vs. the Browns
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers must restrict Denzel Ward
The Carolina Panthers wide receiver room must be ready to restrict Denzel Ward’s influence. He is an All-Pro caliber cornerback that can wreck a game if not game-planned for correctly.
D.J Moore will most likely see most of the Cleveland Browns’ best corner as he has the best shot at slowing down the Maryland product in the passing game. Although the Panthers will be counting on their primary receiving option to make a significant difference with better distribution from Baker Mayfield under center.
Ward had a passer rating allowed of 76.6 in 2021 with three interceptions. Offensive coordinators don’t like to test him much, which is a testament to the esteem in which the Ohio State product is held across the league.
Ben McAdoo will feel confident in Moore getting separation and making plenty of plays against Ward and the Browns. But they must be mindful of taking too many risks in his direction.
Ward is ranked No. 6 in CBS Sports’ top 10 cornerback ranking list. Moore or whoever gets the assignment of battling against the player must be at the top of their game or they won’t be seeing much action in Week 1.
Carolina has enough weapons to spread the football around. But much will also depend on the weather, which isn’t expected to favor the passing game.