A Thought on Each Panther on the Roster Bubble
I've got 18 players on the roster bubble heading into the Carolina Panthers' preseason finale against Detroit. Some of these guys have a better shot of making the roster than others, obviously. Who actually has a chance?
Here's a position-by-position breakdown.
QB: Matt Corral
I'm up in the air on Corral. I think it makes sense to keep him and develop him to be the long-term backup to Young. However, backup QBs grow on trees and if you can flip him for a 7th round pick, you do it.
RB: Spencer Brown
I know the Panthers like Laviska Shenault Jr. in the backfield and probably view him as a fourth back, but I tell you what, I've been really impressed with Spencer Brown this preseason. I think he's worth giving a roster spot to.
WR: Javon Wims, Gary Jennings, Derek Wright
All three of these guys have made plays, but it seems as if Wims is in the best position to make the roster. Frank Reich spoke highly of him earlier this week along with assistant GM Dan Morgan. Both Jennings and Wright will have a chance elsewhere or perhaps on the practice squad.
TE: Giovanni Ricci, Stephen Sullivan
Ricci hasn't impressed in this system, so I think he's out. Sullivan is hit or miss. If another option pops open on the waiver wire, maybe they go there for a fourth tight end.
OT: Larnel Coleman
Cam Erving is the swing tackle if healthy, but he's dealing with an ankle still. The door opens for Coleman, but not sure he's the best option out there.
G: Nash Jensen, Michael Jordan
Since Jensen is a UDFA, nothing is guaranteed. But man, he's had an impressive camp and preseason and in my opinion, he's already earned his roster spot. As for Jordan, well, he may need to look elsewhere.
DL: Raequan Williams, LaBryan Ray, Kobe Jones, Taylor Stallworth
All four of these guys have shown flashes, particularly Williams and Ray in last week's game with the Giants. With Marquan McCall out the door, there's not only a roster spot up for grabs, but a starting spot as well. Jones has looked good at times too, but may be a practice squad guy.
LB: Brandon Smith, Chandler Wooten
I don't see the Panthers holding on to both of these guys. And surprisingly, Wooten is who I would keep for special teams purposes.
CB: Eric Rowe, Stantley Thomas-Oliver III
Both Rowe and STO offer versatility. Rowe can play both corner and safety while STO can lineup at corner or the nickel. I'm sure one of them will make the cut, just not sure which one.
You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:
Facebook - @PanthersOnSI
X - @AllPanthers_ and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_
