4 Panthers who could get more playing time under Ejiro Evero in 2023

Marquis Haynes – Carolina Panthers DE/OLB

Yetur Gross-Matos might be best suited to a rotational piece based on how the defensive end struggled to capitalize on a huge opportunity in 2022. Accumulating just 2.5 sacks wasn’t what the Carolina Panthers hoped after Haason Reddick left, which makes finding alternative options almost essential either in free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft.

While the performance levels of Gross-Matos were disappointing, Marquis Haynes Sr. once again proved his worth as a core depth piece. Doing more with less has become his trademark since entering the league, which probably deserved more involvement than the 41 percent of defensive snaps the edge presence was allocated.

Haynes’ physique could ensure a smooth transition to Ejiro Evero’s scheme that operates in a 3-4 base. While there would be a need for the Ole Miss product to improve his second-level duties – especially in coverage – he is experienced enough to adapt quickly in pursuit of additional reps.

Obviously, this is dependent on how much the Panthers decide to strengthen their current options. However, there is enough of a sample size to suggest Haynes has a big role to play under Evero in 2023.

This is an exciting time. Evero is one of the league’s primary up-and-coming coaches and even though his time in Carolina might be short-lived, this could be the spark that ignites the Panthers’ defense into the elite category.