Carolina Panthers Depth Chart 2020 Panthers Depth Chart

Adding depth to the receiver position

While it’s likely that Christian McCaffrey will once again play a big role in both the passing and running games for Carolina, the Panthers needed some more depth at the receiver spot and got some help through free agency. With Devin Funchess departing, the only true receiver who secured over 500 passing yards last year was D.J. Moore. While Moore will certainly be a big part of the offense once again, he might be due for some sophomore year regression which could dampen his productivity. 

Returning to the team is also Curtis Samuel who 60% of passes for 494 yards. He’s another weapon for Cam Newton and might be looking to step into the WR2 role with the departure of Funchess. Newcomers Chris Hogan and Aldrick Robinson are also looking to make good impressions after coming over in the offseason. Hogan was outstanding for the Patriots during their recent stretches and should bring a great mentality to this Panthers team. Look for a slot receiver who’s great at moving all over the field. Robinson comes over from the Vikings and has been a journeyman his entire career. He’ll get a chance to finally break out as the #4 receiver on the depth chart. 

Bringing in more defensive help

Finishing the year as the 19th rated defense, things needed to change. In the draft, the Panthers selected Florida State edge rusher Brian Burns to shore up the defensive line. He profiled as an instant starter and will look to use his quickness to get to opposing quarterbacks. He has edge speed and can give offensive linemen various looks throughout the game. The 16th overall pick in the draft already has multiple sacks this preseason as he looks to start off his NFL career on a high note. 

In addition to the draft, Carolina made some other acquisitions on the defensive side of the ball. They brought in Bruce Irvin and Gerald McCoy to help further cement the defensive front. Irvin has been a lifelong starter since his rookie season and will be a great source of sacks and tackles. While he did struggle in 2018, his career numbers are very promising and playing for a contender will likely provide him with some extra energy. McCoy was let go by the Bucs simply because his contract was too expensive and Carolina, along with others, pounced. Fortunately, McCoy chose the Panthers and gives them another great interior rusher. The combination of these moves gives the Panthers more speed and versatility heading into this year. 

Expectations for Cam Newton?

After suffering a right shoulder surgery at the end of last season, Cam Newton is still taking it slow during the preseason. He’s taking it careful and being extremely cautious as losing Newton again would essentially end the Panthers season. Perhaps that’s due to Newton still not being 100% confident in his shoulder and the need for more time to recover. Whatever the case may be, Carolina will certainly be looking forward to having newton back in their lineup.

Last season, he passed for 3,395 yards and rushed for another 488. Depending on how long the injury lingers and how confident he feels in his shoulder, we might see Newton passing for shorter distances and attempting to get rid of the ball quicker in fear of getting hit again. Additionally, the rushing may decline simply for the fact that he doesn’t want to risk getting hit in the right shoulder and reaggravating the injury. If he is healthy, I wouldn’t expect nothing less than close to a 4,000 passing and rushing campaign from Newton once again.