Which undrafted free agents stand the best chance of making the Carolina Panthers' 53-man roster after their recent training camp?
Although storms washed away any chance of a second joint practice with the New York Jets to conclude training camp, it shouldn't detract from what an impressive few weeks it's been for Frank Reich's men. The level of optimism is only growing about what this team could accomplish next season and beyond - a stark contrast to the doom that enveloped everyone associated with the Carolina Panthers under the previous regime.
Training camp will have provided Reich and his staff with a broader perspective for their evaluations. Preseason games should also tell fans plenty about which players are separating themselves in pursuit of roster spots.
Some difficult decisions are upcoming for the Panthers and more than a few will feel aggrieved when the time comes for final cuts. But a number of unheralded individuals are walking away from their time at Wofford College feeling more confident about their chances that's for sure.
With this in mind, here are three undrafted free agents with the best chance to make Carolina's 53-man roster after camp.
Rejzohn Wright - Carolina Panthers CB
While Rejzohn Wright didn't do much to stand out during camp, he could still make the 53-man roster depending on how many cornerbacks the Carolina Panthers end up taking through. However, it's absolutely imperative that he shows out during preseason involvement.
There was nothing especially wrong with Wright's contribution. By all accounts, the Last Chance U star was steady enough, but those lower down the pecking order must be much more than that to surge above other more established players at the position.
C.J. Henderson and Keith Taylor Jr. seem to have a new lease of life under Carolina's much-improved coaching staff. This makes life more difficult for Wright, but his determination alone means he cannot be ruled out entirely.
Nash Jensen - Carolina Panthers OL
Training camp always throws up a few surprises. Whether it's everything finally clicking for a veteran down on his luck or an unproven quantity stepping to the fore, it's all part of the process before teams around the league begin trimming the fat.
One such success story emanating from the Carolina Panthers during camp is undoubtedly Nash Jensen. The undrafted free-agent offensive lineman has been nothing short of outstanding throughout, holding his own against more experienced opposition and integrating superbly into a different environment along the way.
Jensen comes from the rough-edged North Dakota State offensive line that's produced some decent players in recent years. After a small period of adjustment, the interior protector now genuinely feels like he belongs and is looking to take someone's job.
This is far better than anyone envisaged when Jensen came into the fold. While it remains something of a long shot he makes the team, the rookie's given himself a fighting chance heading into preseason where he's expected to feature heavily.
If Jensen can earn an additional level of trust by producing the consistency needed during warmup games, it might just be enough for the Panthers to give him a chance. If they feel like he needs a little extra time, then slotting him on the practice squad looks like it could bring some long-term benefits.
Eku Leota - Carolina Panthers OLB
The Carolina Panthers waited until the late minute to acquire another veteran edge rusher to place alongside Brian Burns. Justin Houston promises to be a fantastic addition thanks to his proven production and outstanding leadership within the locker room, but it's made things more difficult for others looking to make their way.
This is one of the position groups where someone can step up out of nowhere and make an impression. Much will depend on what occurs during warmup contests, but Eku Leota's stock has soared at the best possible time with preseason games on the immediate horizon.
Leota dealt with some injury problems at Auburn that dented his draft stock. There are some similarities between his journey and Frankie Luvu, who rose from undrafted obscurity coming out of Washington State to become an integral part of Carolina's plans on defense.
There was a lot to like about Leota's explosiveness and natural instincts. His high motor is another thing that stood out at camp and the Panthers will want to get a good look at the edge presence during the three warmup encounters before coming to a final decision.
This is another strong practice squad candidate if Carolina cannot make space for Leota on their 53-man roster. That wouldn't be the worst situation in the world by any stretch, but it'll be interesting to see if the player can bring his good camp form into a game situation.