Reacting to the Panthers' Unofficial Depth Chart for Week 1
Tuesday evening, the Carolina Panthers released their depth chart for the Week 1 matchup with the Atlanta Falcons, which you can find here. This depth chart is subject to change between now and kickoff but there are a few things that I found interesting.
Rookie starting at right guard?
Chandler Zavala is listed as the starting right guard and will be backed up by Calvin Throckmorton, whom the team claimed off waivers from New Orleans. Cade Mays, who entered training camp as the favorite to win the interim right guard job is listed as the backup to Bradley Bozeman at center. Undrafted free agent Nash Jensen was also in the mix, but will lineup behind Brady Christensen at left guard. Of course with these interior guys, there can be some moving parts.
Mingo starting
When the Panthers took Jonathan Mingo in the second round, I wasn't sure if he would be ready to start by Week 1. Actually, I would've been surprised by it. But he's put together one strong preseason and has earned that opportunity alongside DJ Chark and Adam Thielen. Terrace Marshall Jr., who has been dealing with a back injury, is listed as the backup to Chark. Don't read too much into it as these guys will all see a ton of snaps and at different receiver spots.
Shy Tuttle moves back inside
When Tuttle first signed in Carolina, the team envisioned him starting inside. But during OTAs, training camp, and the preseason, we saw Tuttle line up at defensive end. With the team moving on from Bravvion Roy, Marquan McCall, and John Penisini, Tuttle moves back inside. It's probably where he needed to be anyway.
Return duties
Raheem Blackshear will assume both kick and punt return duties. Recently acquired wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette is listed as the second option, bumping Laviska Shenault to No. 3.
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