Previewing the Carolina Panthers 53-Man Roster

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 16: Tommy Sweeney #89 of the Buffalo Bills makes a catch between Eric Reid #25 and Donte Jackson #26 of the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter of their preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 16, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Defensive Backs (8): James Bradberry, Donte Jackson, Eric Reid, Tre Boston, Ross Cockrell, Javien Elliott, Rashaan Gaulden, Colin Jones

Besides the McCoy signing, Tre Boston’s reunion with Carolina may have been the team’s second-most important defensive addition. Rashaan Gaulden was given an opportunity to earn the second safety position alongside Eric Reid, however, Gaulden was picked on in camp, hence the team bringing Boston back as the starter. Special teams ace, Colin Jones will return for his eighth season with Carolina while serving as extra depth at safety.

Thanks to what should be an improved pass rush in 2019, cornerbacks James Bradberry and Donte Jackson hope to take their games to the next level this season. Bradberry has been a solid player over his brief career, and is entering a contract year. Jackson, entering his second NFL season, has reportedly transformed from a loud-mouthed rookie to a confident, flashy corner who can really make plays. Javien Elliott was quietly added from Tampa Bay this offseason, and at this point looks to be the Panthers’ nickel corner, while Ross Cockrell can play any position in the defensive backfield.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 29: Joey Slye #4 of the Carolina Panthers attempts a field goal during their preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Bank of America Stadium on August 29, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

Special Teams (3): Joey Slye, Michael Palardy, JJ Jansen

For the first time since 2012, the Panthers will have a new full-time kicker in 2019. After suffering from a lingering leg injury, Graham Gano was placed on season-ending injured reserve prior to roster cuts, effectively giving Joey Slye the job. Slye made 7 of 8 field goals in the preseason, including going 3 for 3 from 50+ yards. The only kick Slye missed was blocked. Mike Palardy is returning for his third-full season with the organization, and JJ Jansen, entering his eleventh season with the team, returns as the team’s long-snapper, and remains the longest-tenured Panther.

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