4 Carolina Panthers players who desperately need to develop in 2023

Marquan McCall – Carolina Panthers DT

Ejiro Evero agreeing to become Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator in 2023 is a remarkable coup by Frank Reich. One that could turn a promising unit into one of the league’s most dominant if the right moves are made.

Evero primarily works with a 3-4 base scheme that relies on multiple defensive backs. Another notable feature of his systems is the ability to generate pressure at will, which is something the Panthers seriously lacked last time around.

Carolina is likely to deploy a true nose tackle with Evero calling the shots. While former first-round selection Derrick Brown will fill the role, there is some hope Marquan McCall can evolve into another useful option in case the Auburn product succumbs to injury at some stage.

McCall made his way from undrafted free agency and onto the 53-man roster. It was a strong start on the rotation before things faded down the stretch, but his overall contribution was encouraging overall and something the lineman can definitely build upon moving forward.

The one-time Kentucky standout has the size and strength to play as a true nose tackle. He also boasts the sort of frame that clogs up space and allows others to do damage.

For McCall to gain Evero’s trust, he must take on his coaching and display the same work ethic that got him an initial shot last season. Anything less could see him on the fringes.