The Carolina Panthers visit the Pittsburgh Steelers Thursday night in their final tune-up before the regular season begins.
With the end of preseason comes the big cut; clubs must cut their rosters down to a maximum of 53 players by 4:00 EST on September 1.
Offensive Line
The offensive line has continued to be a sore spot on the Panthers roster due to injuries and departures. After losing All-Pro guard Andrew Norwell to the Jaguars in the offseason, the injury bug has been steadily feasting on the offensive line. Starting right tackle Daryl Williams and projected starting guard Amini Silatolu both went down with knee injuries during training camp. Following a preseason win over Miami, left tackle Matt Kalil had a knee scope and is now week to week. After speaking with media about his ability to fill in at different positions on a thin offensive line, right tackle Jeremiah Sirles pulled his hamstring early in the game against the Patriots.
While these aren’t season ending injuries, the Panthers could possibly start the regular season without three starters on the line. It will be interesting to see what moves, if any, are made in the next week and a half. Guard turned tackle Dorian Johnson is a bubble player that could benefit from the rash of injuries.
Wide Receivers
Another Achilles heel for last season’s team was the wide receiver corp. Getting Curtis Samuel back as well as signing vet Torrey Smith and drafting DJ Moore definitely give this position a boost.
Defensive Backs
Gone from the secondary are starters Kurt Coleman and Daryl Worley. With the addition of draft picks, Rashaan Gaulden and Donte Jackson coupled with the vet leadership of Captain Munnerlyn, Mike Adams, and James Bradberry, the secondary unit has its share of bubble players. Corn Elder, Efe Obada, Kevon Seymour, and Lorenzo Doss are all on the chopping block.
Elder missed his rookie season due to injury but has had a good camp and preseason. Although Kevon Seymour has the experience, his preseason struggles and previous injury have him fighting an uphill battle with Doss. Due to Obada’s distinction as a member of the NFL’s international program, the Panthers could keep him as a member of the practice squad and still have their 10 spots open there.
Thursday’s contest at Heinz Field will be the last shot for many to show they belong on the final roster. Starters will not play at all; giving the hopefuls a full 60-minute shot at proving their value.