[blockquote cite=”BV” type=”left”]We’re launching another new segment today titled ‘Rookie Watch.’Josh Norris, NFL Draft Writer for Rotoworld/NBC Sports, will provide notes on the Panthers rookies who play each week. We figured since he researched the guys during the draft process, he can provide great insight into their development, or lack thereof.If you’re not following him already, and if you care about college football and/or the draft, well … follow Josh on Twitter![/blockquote][accordion_item open=”true” title=”WR Kelvin Benjamin”]
Played 59 of 71 snaps. Even from the first play he dealt with press coverage. Got physical at the line of scrimmage. I’m not one to focus too much on WR blocking, but this could really improve. He should at least get in the way and extend his arms. Might be due to fatigue. Lined up in the slot in one 11 personnel set (1 RB/1 TE/3 WR), trips right. First catch saw him create leverage advantage versus press at the line then sustain it using his frame. First down at end of first quarter was against zone coverage. Great throw to open area and he hauled it in away from his body. They attempted a couple pick plays for him to free tight end Greg Olsen on a crossing route. Benjamin was not even in prime position for TD catch, bet he wanted to high point it. He’s much more advanced than most expected.[accordion_item open=”true” title=”G Trai Turner”]
Played 23 of 71 snaps. Entered on third series for starter Fernando Velasco. Was off balance and taken to the ground versus a DE/DT stunt. Needs to be more patient in these situations and not overextend. Has been an issue in the past. Asked to pull in early second quarter, result was a seven-yard run, but he did not block anyone. Just threw someone down in pass protection in the third quarter. A mauler when he has a balanced base.[accordion_item open=”true” title=”CB Bené Benwikere”]
Played 41 of 57 snaps. In for the second snap on defense because of nickel package (in for linebacker A.J. Klein). Very willing to hit, showed that versus tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins. Mostly zone in nickel (watching QB)? Don’t get greedy and ask him to play outside, he wins in the slot (in trash/lots of moving parts).[accordion_item open=”true” title=”WR Philly Brown”]
Other gunner across from safety Colin Jones. I was shocked to see him get WR snaps in the first quarter, but Benjamin was fatigued. Great special teams tackle on punt return in third quarter. His 23-yard return should not have gained nearly as many yards as it did. In general, too indecisive.[/accordion]
BBR NUGGETS
- MUST READ claims are cliché, but this is one. How Brandon Williams kept his dream alive. — The Oregonian
- Interesting time to just now call for Greg Hardy to be suspended. — Charlotte Observer
- Jerry Richardson is unlikely to touch any of this publicly, but Erik Spanberg offers some good ideas. — Charlotte Business Journal
- Former Panthers receiver Marvin McNutt lands on the Redskins practice squad. — Twitter