4 Panthers players on a concerning career path heading into 2023
By Dean Jones
Keith Taylor Jr. – Carolina Panthers CB
Considering how Keith Taylor Jr. was seen as a fifth-round development project in 2021, the cornerback performed way above expectations. The Carolina Panthers put high demands on the rookie thanks to Jaycee Horn’s early injury and although there were some bumps in the road, plenty of positives emerged despite his lack of experience.
What came next for Taylor was less convincing. The former Washington star was sluggish in coverage – even on a rotational basis – and when the time came to shine from a starting role, he fluffed his lines.
Injuries to Donte Jackson and Horn thrust Taylor into the spotlight during Carolina’s biggest game of the 2022 season. One that could have clinched the NFC South with a victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Hopes were high regardless of some big names missing out. However, it didn’t take long for legendary quarterback Tom Brady to sniff out the Panthers’ cornerback weakness and exploit it accordingly.
Brady showed no mercy on Taylor and C.J. Henderson, who had no answer for Mike Evans and Chris Godwin throughout the one-sided affair.
Taylor led the league in yards per completion allowed, conceded 68,6 percent of targets, and had a whopping 129.0 passer rating when targeted. This doesn’t exactly demonstrate growth, so the player needs a huge offseason to convince new defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero he’s worthy of prominent reps.