4 critical observations from the Panthers success vs. Saints in Week 3

Laviska Shenault Jr. announced himself with the Carolina Panthers

If Laviska Shenault Jr. wanted to announce himself to Carolina Panthers fans on his debut, that was some way to do it.

Three plays, 103 yards, and a touchdown to be precise.

Shenault accounted for every yard gained on a crucial drive that put the Panthers in complete control. After returning a kick for 36 yards, Baker Mayfield found the former second-round pick on a quick screen and the Colorado product made his man miss before bursting 67 yards into the end zone.

Shenault had 20 yards on a crucial third and long conversion shortly after, coupled with 54 return yards leaving him with 144 all-purpose yards on the day. With Terrace Marshall Jr. a healthy scratch, it seems the recent trade acquisition from the Jacksonville Jaguars has already jumped ahead on the depth chart.

With Shi Smith struggling again with only two receptions for 22 yards, it seems once Shenault has become more accustomed to Ben McAdoo’s offense he will become a key part of this Panthers’ offense. Don’t be surprised to see him start in this packed wide receiver room sooner rather than later.