The Carolina Panthers' preseason concluded with a victory over the Houston Texans, finishing with a 3-1 record ahead of roster cuts and the regular season in two weeks.
Carolina's final warm-up contest featured a fun display of high energy on both sides of the ball, including the defense, which secured three takeaways. After a rough joint practice, fans leave the preseason with mixed emotions despite head coach Dave Canales' squad ending on a high note.
With all of that said, let's share some instant reactions from the Panthers preseason finale, featuring a hefty load of defensive notes.
Gut reactions from the Carolina Panthers' preseason win over the Houston Texans
1. Undrafted cornerback DeVonta Smith made his case to be another undrafted gem for general manager Dan Morgan. On a single series in the first quarter, he had a tackle for loss and back-to-back pass breakups. The Notre Dame product has also impressed on special teams, leading the Panthers to decide between the rookie and veteran cornerback Akayleb Evans for one of the final spots.
2. However, another undrafted rookie didn't have the night he wanted. Offensive tackle Albert Reese IV, who is attempting to make the final roster, had some rough moments and struggled with his anchor, though the run blocking was sufficient. Fortunately, he did improve as he saw more action throughout the night.
3. Defensive lineman Jared Harrison-Hunte may have had the game that secured his spot on the 53-man roster. He was impressive as a pass rusher, showcasing a bull rush against a double team and penetrating the backfield. Harrison-Hunte and Aaron Hall have been competing for the last spot, creating another tough decision for Carolina.
4. Off the eye test, Ja’seem Reed had a better night than John Metchie III at wide receiver, making difficult catches on all levels of the field. The two have been battling for the final wide receiver spot. General manager Dan Morgan noted during the broadcast that there are “legit” seven guys who could make the roster at wide receiver — hard choices ahead.
5. Outside linebackers Trevis Gipson and Thomas Incoom made their excellent cases to be on the Panthers' 53-man roster. This started in the first quarter, when both players made plays in the backfield. Gipson had a pressure and a sack on Davis Mills, while Incoom had a couple of plays in the backfield against the run.
6. Linebackers coach Peter Hansen called plays on defense, and the unit looked good. The change in play-calling did not alter how the defense played; it reflected increased passion and motivation, as players were playing for their jobs. However, it was great to see aggression, physicality, and good trench play on this side of the ball.
7. In a game that he needed to step up, linebacker Trevin Wallace, battling for the starting role next to Devin Lloyd, did so with some strong plays in the first couple of series he played, including a sack of Mills. The 2024 third-round pick hasn’t had the strongest preseason, but making a good final impression before the cutdowns is a quality sign for him.
8. There will be a discussion this season about when to start rookie center Sam Hecht. If Luke Fortner struggles during the year, calls will be made for the first-year lineman from Kansas State to make his debut. Hecht looked stout as a run blocker with good leg drive and grip strength. He also showed good communication and steadiness in pass protection.
9. Offensive lineman Brady Christensen got extended reps at left tackle after starting the game at right guard. His steadiness at both positions suggests the veteran lineman could have Carolina keep only eight offensive linemen after cutdowns.
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