The Carolina Panthers are looking for their second victory of the campaign against the Cleveland Browns this weekend. It won't be easy, and with the number of injuries head coach Dave Canales is dealing with right now, it'll take a collective effort.
Several influential figures are trying to overcome knocks. Taylor Moton, Ikem Ekwonu, Nic Scourton, and Chris Brazzell II are long-term absences. It's not ideal, but that is why general manager Dan Morgan worked so hard to build depth during another busy offseason.
Carolina has a tight-knit group. Everyone knows their job, and when the team needs more, the coaching staff puts every player in the best possible position to succeed.
The Browns should feel confident after an upset win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, the Panthers have more than enough to get the job done.
With that in mind, here are three Panthers players who must shine if they get more on their plate in Cleveland.
Carolina Panthers players who may be counted upon more in Week 3
John Metchie III, WR
The Panthers have both Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette on the injury report, which is concerning. Both played a leading role in Carolina's triumph over the Atlanta Falcons. And even if one of them can't go, someone else has to fill the void effectively.
That could be veteran wide receiver John Metchie III. He was active for the first time last weekend, and his connection with quarterback Bryce Young from their time at Alabama could mean more targets if the Panthers are short in their wideout room.
Lathan Ransom, S
Nick Scott left Carolina's game in Atlanta with a rib injury, and he's missed the first two days of practice this week. Even if he gets the all-clear to play against the Browns, the veteran safety will be nowhere near 100 percent.
The Panthers have other options. Zakee Wheatley flashed immense promise on his NFL debut, and he will have a role. But with more experience, Lathan Ransom looks set to take Scott's place from the outset.
Ransom is a tone-setter with the explosiveness and instincts to reach the contact point quickly. Coverage has also improved heading into Year 2, which will be needed to counter Cleveland's young wideouts.
Tyrel Dodson, LB
Devin Lloyd's linebacker masterclass against the Falcons came at a price. The second-team All-Pro is nursing a calf issue right now and hasn't practiced over the first two days of the week. Whether that's enough to keep the NFC Defensive Player of the Week out of the lineup remains to be seen, but this could be a good time for Tyrel Dodson to get involved.
Dodson started on the practice squad. He was quickly called up to the active roster, though he was a healthy scratch last week. But with Lloyd and Claudin Cherelus off the field, he's likely had some work as a starting linebacker.
That will make a big difference to his comfort level in Ejiro Evero's defense. And if Lloyd and Cherelus aren't ready, Dodson should be next up.
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