Instead of asking a question for each position like we did ahead of the first three preseason games, let’s narrow it down to one guy per group for Thursday’s exhibition finale against the Steelers.
Cam Newton hasn’t played in the fourth preseason game since his rookie season, and despite the first-team offense’s uninspiring performance against the Patriots, it’s hard to imagine the Panthers will put the MVP out there against Pittsburgh. Backup Derek Anderson, who took a few hard hits Friday, will also likely sit this one out. That means four quarters of Webb, with Anderson standing by as an emergency option.
His roster spot is probably safe even though he hasn’t put up the numbers he did last preseason. Wegher, who’s turned into a valuable member of special teams, should get the bulk of carries against the Steelers.
There’s a chance he’s already done enough to earn a spot on the 53-man roster, but another impressive night could convince the Panthers to keep six wideouts.
It’s been a disappointing preseason for seventh-round pick Beau Sandland, who’s struggled as a blocker and dropped his only target. Lucas’s blocking is also “a work in progress,” but if the Panthers keep a fourth TE, he may win what’s been a mostly unsatisfying competition.
The Aussie was the most surprising name on GM Dave Gettleman’s list of training camp “pleasant surprises.” Yankey may not have a roster spot waiting for him, but he has a shot at the practice squad.
Few paid attention when the Panthers claimed him off waivers a day after they made Vernon Butler their first-round pick. But Thomas is a legit threat to Kyle Love’s job.
He played ahead of Ben Jacobs on special teams and with the second-team defense last week. If the Panthers decide to keep just six LBs, Cash or Jacobs will be the odd man out, and it’s tough to see them chancing the fast-rising undrafted rookie on waivers.
The newest Panther hasn’t played a regular-season game since 2014. Does he have a legit chance to stick around or is he just a warm body to have around until Dean Marlowe heals up?
The last time the Panthers had a Pro Bowl punter, Todd Sauerbrun was on a downward spiral both professionally and personally. Gettleman gave up a lot for Lee, who unlike Sauerbrun, just does his job and goes home.