Carolina Panthers Position by Position Breakdown: QB
Training Camp starts today for the Carolina Panthers so let’s breakdown the QB position.
QB1
I don’t think anyone is disputing that Cam Newton is going to be the starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers this season. The 2015 NFL MVP started last season on fire. Through the first 8 games, he was completing nearly 70% of his passes (highest in his career) while throwing 22 touchdowns to 7 picks. The season started to unravel in week 10 against the Steelers. After taking a shot directly to the shoulder, courtesy of T.J. Watt, Newton showed signs of injury for the rest of the season. the Steelers dominated most of the game and ended up winning 52-21. Fast forward past an offseason shoulder surgery and here we are. According to Rivera, Newton is reportedly “ready to go but will be on a pitch count to start camp.” Let’s just hope Newton’s shoulder holds up, the Panthers season depends on it.
Fight For the Backup Spot
The backup QB slot is where we are going to see the most competition. Between journeyman Taylor Heinicke, Former 5-star prospect Kyle Allen and this years 3rd round pick Will Grier, there is bound to be a drop off from Newton. With aging and now retired, Derek Anderson backing up Newton for the last 6 years prior to last season, it was time to implement some new blood into the backup QB spot. I don’t think the Panthers used a 3rd round pick on Grier if they didn’t intend on having him on the opening day roster. With that said, I think this competition is more between Heinicke and Allen. Both showed signs of promise last season. Heinicke saw his season end after his first game as he injured his Non-throwing elbow. During that game, you saw a QB who looked to have a pretty firm grasp on Norv Turner’s playbook. I think that will give Heinike the advantage in the end, with him winning the backup spot. While Allen has a good outing in the final game of the season last year (16/27 228 yds 2 TDS 0 int) the Panthers have a better chance of Allen clearing waivers and bringing him back on the practice squad, than Heinicke.
Projected Depth Chart
QB1- Cam Newton
QB2- Taylor Heinicke
QB3- Will Grier
Next Position Up: Running Back
I’ll be breaking down each position until the first preseason game. Stay tuned for our next breakdown: Running Back
@BernieBowles91
