Reinforcements are on the way for the Carolina Panthers. But as is typically the case, that means changing roles for others.
During Monday's press conference, head coach Dave Canales told reporters that both offensive tackle Taylor Moton (blood clots) and defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton (neck) would have their practice windows opened this week ahead of the Panthers' Week 6 contest against the Philadelphia Eagles.
It is a great sign that Carolina is getting back to full strength in the trenches. However, Wharton's impending return may come at a cost in player development for a standout rookie.
Aaron Hall could lose vital Carolina Panthers snaps to Tershawn Wharton
Every year, general manager Dan Morgan has found an immediate contributor in undrafted free agency. In his first year, it was wide receiver Jalen Coker, followed by cornerback Corey Thornton last fall and defensive lineman Aaron Hall this season.
The former two-time Duke Blue Devils team captain has been one of the NFL's most impressive rookie defensive linemen. This is despite every team, including the Panthers, passing over him numerous times throughout the draft process.
Hall has seven pressures this season, according to Pro Football Focus. He is one of Carolina's better interior pass rushers, but Wharton's imminent return could impact the first-year pro more than most.
Wharton getting back into the fold may limit Hall's opportunities and snaps going forward. The Panthers made a $45 million investment in the veteran last spring, and it has turned into one of Morgan's worst decisions since becoming general manager.
Carolina must make the most of its seemingly failed investment. However, the tape shows a player who, when healthy, can contribute as a pass rusher with incredible quickness and power.
Aaron Hall has quickly become Dan Morgan's escape plan
In some ways, Hall is almost like Morgan's escape plan in motion.
Yes, Hall would be losing reps to Wharton, but that doesn't mean he can't contribute, especially given how often the Panthers rotate their defensive tackles in and out of the lineup during the game. Both players will add pass rush value, though Hall's upside is higher than Wharton's at this juncture.
Carolina will probably have to let go of a defensive lineman on the active roster, whether that be second-year player Cam Jackson or TeRah Edwards, whom the Panthers traded for during roster cuts last month.
Hall's role is safe, as his play has earned him a stay. Even so, Wharton's return could cost Carolina more youth.
Hall can still contribute in a lesser role. He'd be Wharton's backup as the 4i rusher who could slant and penetrate at the line of scrimmage, allowing Carolina to be more exotic and diverse in their NASCAR packages.
It seems that Hall is Wharton's successor. Even if he is inactive on some game days this season, the former Duke standout has shown enough early this season to compete for some sort of role in 2027.
Add us as a preferred source on Google