Panthers' Newest Additions Made an Impact in Preseason Debut
Newsweek · C · trust 30/100
0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. The Panthers got their first look at several new additions in the preseason, and there was lots to like from the group in their debut against the Bills.
Jaelan Phillips made his presence felt quickly. The edge rusher recorded a sack and followed it with back-to-back pressures on Buffalo's opening drive, helping Carolina force the Bills to settle for a field goal. That's the kind of start the Panthers were hoping to see from one of their newest additions.
Devin Lloyd also made an early impact. The inside linebacker showed good pursuit on the second series, tracking down James Cook III for a tackle for loss.
Kenny Pickett provided another heartening performance. The backup quarterback completed 16 of 19 passes for 92 yards and a touchdown, giving Carolina some steady play through the air.
The Panthers also got a look at what their younger additions can bring. First-round pick Monroe Freeling looked solid while playing right tackle, holding up well in protection during his nine snaps. It was a small sample, but it was a positive first step for the rookie.
Undrafted defensive lineman Aaron Hall and returning outside linebacker Cam Gill also looked solid as pass rushers, giving the Panthers more players to keep an eye on as the preseason continues.
Fifth-round safety Zakee Wheatley continued to show why the Panthers like his potential. He was effective as an open-field tackler.
Carolina ultimately fell 29-14 to Buffalo, but the score doesn't tell the whole story when it comes to evaluating individual players in the preseason. The Carolina Panthers had several new faces make an impression, and that's exactly what the coaching staff needed to see.
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