Unfortunately, the Carolina Panthers are keeping their preseason plans under wraps for the second week in a row, so who knows what to expect on Saturday night against the New York Jets.
Still, here are six things we’re looking for in the team’s latest summer action…
1. Who is playing?: A fairly simple but relevant question considering the Panthers had 33 players on the bench for last week’s opener against the New England Patriots. Once again, head coach Dave Canales was not committed to who would start – fans were keen to get a look at quarterback Bryce Young and the team’s other regulars.
2. Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall Jr. want to come back: The two young wideouts were among the most hyped Panthers this summer, but came up empty-handed in their first taste of preseason action, with one drop each. After an impressive day of practice together against the Jets, can the two translate their results into a game?
3. Depth of the offensive line: With their starters potentially back on the bench and plenty of injuries, the Panthers have been forced to add some new players to their offensive line. Carolina may dig deep and bring in Jack Anderson, Tyler Smith, Mason Brooks and Ike Boettger – all of whom were signed last week.
4. Findings: Although the Panthers’ defense is relatively solid in 2023, it ranked last in the NFL in turnovers. However, in recent practices, the unit has suffered losses from both its own quarterback and Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Can they continue the trend?
5. Depth of the cornerbacks: With projected starter Dane Jackson out for “approximately six” weeks with a hamstring injury, it’s more important than ever for Carolina to have one of their backups step in. Fortunately, Lamar Jackson, Dicaprio Bootle and D’Shawn Jamison have done just that this summer. Will any of them truly emerge as Jackson’s replacement, or will the front office look elsewhere for a more proven option?
6. Reaching the end zone: The Panthers haven’t scored a single touchdown in their last three games (the last two of the 2023 regular season and last Thursday’s exhibition game loss to the Patriots). Heck, their plane has even had trouble scoring a touchdown. Will we finally see one tonight?
