Carolina Panthers Position Breakdown: Interior Defensive Linemen
By Daniel Lacy
Roster Outlook
Behind them will probably be Obada and Cox at the end spots with Butler as the reserve nose tackle and switching Love between the two spots, as he is versatile enough to play either position. However, it is worth noting that the 3-4 is generally only used in base packages, meaning the team will go back to a four-man front in the oft-used nickel package or any other formation they line up in. In these situations, expect Short and McCoy to slide inside with two edge rushers on the outside in pass-rushing situations.
This could also impact the number of roster spots Carolina decides to keep at this position. The Panthers generally keep four defensive tackles on their rosters, but this scheme change could lead to them opening up another spot or two among interior linemen and potentially cutting down on inside linebackers to compensate for that. For this season, Short, McCoy and Poe are obvious locks, but the depth behind them is completely up for grabs.
Butler is the favorite for one spot given his status and ability to play nose tackle, but given his lack of production, he is by no means a lock. Love’s experience playing in a 3-4 system, versatility in this system and relative consistency over the past few years with the team will also help his case for a roster spot, but if the team decides to give the younger guys a chance, his spot could be in jeopardy as well. While Obada and Cox will bulk up and make a move inside to prepare for this scheme change, their ability to play the traditional 4-3 defensive end, as well as both being younger guys who still have time to develop, could make a case to keep them around as well.
Ultimately, I think the Panthers will opt to keep five players within this position group, with the possibility for a sixth given the versatility among this handful of players. As with just about any other position group, the depth spots will simply come down to whoever outplays the others throughout training camp and preseason, making this upcoming month that much more important to Butler, Love, Obada and Cox.