Carolina Panthers 2023 Depth Chart After Preseason Week 1

Quarterback

* Sam Darnold (starter) * PJ Walker (backup) * Matt Corral (third-string)

Analysis

Sam Darnold is the clear-cut starter for the Panthers after a solid performance in the preseason opener. PJ Walker is a capable backup with starting experience, while Matt Corral is a rookie with potential.

Running Back

* Christian McCaffrey (starter) * D'Onta Foreman (backup) * Chuba Hubbard (third-string)

Analysis

Christian McCaffrey is one of the best running backs in the NFL when healthy. D'Onta Foreman is a solid backup with starting experience, while Chuba Hubbard is a talented runner who can also contribute as a receiver.

Wide Receiver

* DJ Moore (starter) * Robbie Anderson (starter) * Terrace Marshall Jr. (third-string) * Shi Smith (fourth-string)

Analysis

DJ Moore and Robbie Anderson are the Panthers' top two receivers. Terrace Marshall Jr. is a talented young receiver who could break out this season, while Shi Smith is a reliable slot receiver.

Tight End

* Ian Thomas (starter) * Tommy Tremble (backup) * Colin Thompson (third-string)

Analysis

Ian Thomas is the Panthers' starting tight end after a strong performance in the preseason opener. Tommy Tremble is a promising young tight end who could push for more playing time this season, while Colin Thompson is a solid blocker.

Offensive Line

* Ikem Ekwonu (left tackle) * Brady Christensen (left guard) * Pat Elflein (center) * Austin Corbett (right guard) * Taylor Moton (right tackle)

Analysis

The Panthers' offensive line is expected to be a strength this season. Ikem Ekwonu is a rookie left tackle with a lot of potential, while Brady Christensen, Pat Elflein, Austin Corbett, and Taylor Moton are all experienced starters.

Defensive Line

* Brian Burns (starter) * Yetur Gross-Matos (starter) * Derrick Brown (starter) * Marquis Haynes Sr. (fourth0-string)

Analysis

The Panthers' pass rush was a major weakness last season, but they added Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos this offseason. Derrick Brown is a solid run-stopper, while Marquis Haynes Sr. is a veteran with starting experience.

Linebacker

* Shaq Thompson (starter) * Frankie Luvu (starter) * Cory Littleton (third-string) * Damien Wilson (fourth-string)

Analysis

Shaq Thompson is one of the best linebackers in the NFL. Frankie Luvu is a solid tackler, while Cory Littleton and Damien Wilson are experienced veterans.

Cornerback

* Jaycee Horn (starter) * Donte Jackson (starter) * CJ Henderson (third-string) * Rashaan Melvin (fourth-string)

Analysis

Jaycee Horn is a rising star at cornerback. Donte Jackson is a solid tackler, while CJ Henderson and Rashaan Melvin are experienced veterans.

Safety

* Jeremy Chinn (starter) * Xavier Woods (starter) * Juston Burris (third-string) * Kenny Robinson (fourth-string)

Analysis

Jeremy Chinn is one of the most versatile safeties in the NFL. Xavier Woods is a solid tackler, while Juston Burris and Kenny Robinson are experienced veterans.

Special Teams

* Kicker: Zane Gonzalez * Punter: Johnny Hekker * Long Snapper: JJ Jansen

Analysis

Zane Gonzalez is a reliable kicker. Johnny Hekker is one of the best punters in the NFL. JJ Jansen is a veteran long snapper.