The NFL changed the practice squad rules for the 2020 season to account for players going on IR due to the pandemic. In addition to expanding from 10 to 16 players, teams can choose four protected players every week that other teams cannot sign.
Here are the top four candidates on the current Carolina Panthers to take those spots going into this season.
QB Will Grier
Last season, the Panthers rolled with Will Grier as their third quarterback on the roster behind Cam Newton and Kyle Allen despite a poor showing during the preseason. Late in the year, Grier looked no better in his two starts. This protected practice squad idea is perfect for him, though. Grier gets more time to develop while allowing P.J. Walker to take over as the primary backup behind Teddy Bridgewater. It also prevents other teams from poaching him, which would cost Carolina a wasted third-round pick.
OL Branden Bowen
There are now just three undrafted rookie offensive linemen on the roster after last week’s cuts. Without any preseason tape to go on, it’s going to be difficult for Sam Tecklenburg, Mike Horton and Bowen to prove themselves enough to earn a roster spot over a veteran with pro experience. It may be worth keeping one or two of them around on the practice squad, though. Bowen has experience at right guard and right tackle, which could turn out to be the offensive line’s weakest position if Taylor Moton gets injured.
LB Chris Orr
Another position group that will be hard to crack is linebacker, despite the loss of Luke Kuechly to an early retirement. Jordan Mack has opted out and Jason Ferris was cut, but Orr is still competing for a spot with fellow rookies Sam Franklin, David Reese and Kyahva Tezino. They all have their qualities. Orr’s pass rushing is the one the Panthers should consider for the protected squad. Last season, he posted 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for a loss.
DB Myles Hartsfield
The Panthers need all the depth in the defensive backfield that they can find. If Hartsfield doesn’t wind up making the 53-man roster, he’s a strong candidate to earn a spot on the practice squad. His ability to play either safety or cornerback could be critical given the team’s lack of experience at both positions. Hartsfield posted three interceptions and 14 pass breakups during his college career.
