Defensive Linemen

 

Can Kyle Love Secure a Job Against His Former Team?

 

When Love returned this spring on a 1-year deal, his role on the 53-man roster was mostly assumed. But after the Panthers made Vernon Butler their top draft pick, Robert Thomas and Eric Crume have been pushing Love for a possible fifth spot in the middle of the line.

 

Linebackers

 

Will Jeremy Cash continue his rise?

 

The priority UDFA has gone from a fish out of water in the spring to a guy who’s a threat Ben Jacobs’ roster spot.

Jacobs is back after an ankle injury kept him out of the first two exhibitions. Against the Ravens and Titans, Cash racked up seven tackles on defense while adding a special teams stop.

 

 

Defensive Backs

 

How Will Daryl Worley Respond?

 

The rookie’s already had a full week. First, he was picked on by the Titans. Three days later, he had ‘a misunderstanding’ with WR Devin Funchess.

To his credit, Worley admitted he was ‘very unimpressed’ with how he played in Tennessee. Whether it’s Tom Brady or Jimmy Garoppolo, the Patriots will likely pass a good bit, so Worley should have a chance to be more aggressive than he was in Nashville.

 

Specials Teams

 

Where Will Kickoffs Land?

 

I’ll have more on this Friday, but the Panthers are still figuring out how to best approach the NFL’s new rule that brings touchbacks out to the 25-yard line. Strategies are up in the air for the kickoff and return teams, so expect some testing Friday night.