Review of the Carolina Panthers Depth Chart From Last Season: A Review You Didn’t Know You Needed
Well, the Carolina Panthers, not the generic stuff. For those who gaze upon the Carolina Panthers depth chart and think to themselves, “Everything is okay,” that is 180 degrees out of accurate. This NFL roster is in dire need of analysis, so much so that failing to look at it would be downright heretical.
I have put in the effort—brow, every line of the chart, post-practice whispers, and now I have 7 pieces that are fundamentally altering the expectations for the 2025 Panthers seasons from the depth chart.
Quarterback Shuffle – The Bryce Young Problem
Let’s start with the most prominent. Bryce Young is well known – or infamous – for having one of the worst firs rookie seasons. That said, the Panthers are still firmly convinced that giving Young the reins is the right decision.
An Unforeseen Battle: Carolina Panthers depth chart
There is some strange activity taking place. Combat veterans seem to have renewed their contracts. There is word around the practice fields that Matt Corral is not done and has stepped up as one of the most dependable QBs during camp. Is this rumor possible? Sure. But when your backup is receiving more first-team cues during scrimmage, it definitely piques your interest.
If Bryce does not show up during the preseason scrimmages, expect to see a first utilization of the two-quarterback system as early as possible.
Bold 4-word phrase: Matt Corral preps silently
Running Backs: The Committee Eras Have Begun Carolina Panthers Depth Chart
The single back systems led by a feature running back, such as Christian McCaffrey, seem to have been proven wrong. The current backfield of the Panthers is set to be a true committee, which is sending a lot of fantasy football enthusiasts who have drafted Panthers running backs to pull their hair out.
Miles Sanders Leads But. Carolina Panthers depth chart
FB Miles Sanders remains the leader of the group as he is listed at RB1, but Brooks and Chuba Hubbard compete for second and third slots on the depth chart. Additionally, Brooks displays the combination of speed and vision that is reminiscent of a young Alvin Kamara.
As anticipated, Brooks is poised to take over the more profitable red zone duties starting in the second half of the season.
Bold 4-word phrase: Jonathon Brooks rising fast
Wide Receiver Corps Youth Takes Over
Now, let us dive in. According to the depth chart, carolina panthers depth chart Adam Thielen is listed as WR1. But who is his backup?
“Explosiveness. Youth. Speed. And a lot of uncertainty.”
Watch Out For Xavier Legette, Carolina Panthers depth chart
The Panthers’ first-round pick is the talk of the camp for all the good reasons. Legette is big, strong, and fearless, and all signs point to him being a primary focus.
And don’t sleep on Jonathan Mingo. He’s beginning to make a strong push.
Bold 4-word phrase: Xavier Legette dominates drills
Tight End Room Hayden Hurst’s Last Stand?
While Hayden Hurst still holds the top name at TE, he is no longer the clear frontrunner. Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas are both encroaching on his share of the targets.
Is a New TE1 Coming? Carolina Panthers depth chart
Hurst’s erratic chemistry with Bryce Young makes, and Tremble seems to be gaining a reputation as a reliable short-yardage option.
If the coaching staff decides to go with the hot hand, Hurst could experience reduced snap counts as early as Week 3.
Bold 4-word phrase: Coaches are impressed by Tommy Tremble
Offensive Line Rebuild or Revival?
This is a split analysis. The Panthers’ O-line problems were primarily last season, particularly with regard to pass protection. With some new talent and a couple of key returning veterans, however, things may be looking more promising.
The Ickey Ekwonu Anchor
Ekwonu continues to excel at left tackle, and while center Bradley Bozeman is on the bubble, he has struggled during camp.
Trying Cade Mays at center is a fascinating move that has the potential to transform the entire identity of the line.
Defense Young, Fast, and Unpredictable
As important as the offense is, let’s turn our attention to what could be one of the most underappreciated defensive units in the entire league.
Defensive Line Burns and Friends
Brian Burns remains the face of the defense, and he is looking absolutely shredded this preseason. The real story, though? Rookie edge rusher D.J. Johnson is determined to see playing time.
Expect the Panthers to deploy a lot of hybrid fronts and disrupt opposing quarterbacks early and often.
Bold 4-word phrase: Brian Burns leads charge
Secondary Surprises – A Future-Proof Unit?
This is where things get particularly compelling. The secondary for the Panthers is starting to form and may become one of the team’s greatest assets.
Jaycee Horn and the Rising Rooks
Jaycee Horn is a lock, but what about the rest?
Rookie Chau Smith-Wade, a cover corner, has been a coverage standout. He demonstrates a unique ability to anticipate the game as it unfolds within the play and the quarterback’s next moves, which coaches, according to team reports, greatly appreciate.
And we cannot forget Jeremy Chinn, who is being utilized more strategically this season. He may offer surprising value as the defensive unit’s X-factor.
Bold 4-word phrase: Chau Smith-Wade shines
Special Teams Don’t Sleep on This Unit
Positioned on the team depth chart as the Carolina Panthers’ Special Teams, this unit is often unnoticed. This, though, is a unit poised to win them games this season.
Return Game Gets a Boost
With Shi Smith and Raheem Blackshear, the return game has been rejuvenated. Both are quick, powerful and are in a tight race with one another.
Eddy Piñeiro is still the incumbent kicker for the Panthers. However, should he falter, there is no shortage of desperate, unsigned veterans ready to take his place.
Final Thoughts: This Team is Not Boring Anymore
Let’s be truthful: the Panthers of last year were excruciating to watch. So, what about now?
This team is vastly different. The depth chart reveals an innovative franchise in the making. The Carolina Panthers are undergoing evolution, and with a new approach, a new vision, and a transformation comes new optimism.
There are remarkable breakout stars, thrilling quarterback competitions, and as the new season approaches, the spotlight is on Carolina. Dominance is the hopeful expectation with depth.H4: Brief Recap – Seven Notable Surprises
The preparation of Matt Corral comes in silence and is positioned behind Bryce Young
Jonathon Brooks is most certainly the leader of the RB group
Legette Xavier is the DR of the WR portion of the practice
Tommy Tremble Over Hurst: Coaches Praise Tremble Over Hurst
Cade Mays is assessed as a center
Brian Burns is the one who is spearheading the defense
Chau Smith Wade is a standout in the secondary
Concluding Remarks
Every football season comes with a certain amount of unpredictability. The depth chart of the Carolina Panthers suggests quite the opposite, hinting that the franchise is trying to undergo a rebuild. Expect to see new standout players and new positions. This could be the year the Panthers surprise everyone.