If there’s one player the Panthers defense needs to step up in a big way in 2019, it’s last year’s third-round pick, defensive back Rashaan Gaulden. At Tennessee, Gaulden was used to a starring role. However, he didn’t get much playing time in his rookie season. In the end, Gaulden played only 143 defensive snaps. This year, he’s likely to have a much more important role though thanks to two vacancies in the secondary.
For the last two seasons, Captain Munnerlyn has played at slot cornerback and Mike Adams played free safety. Both of them will not be returning in 2019 and as of yet the team has not signed or drafted any new players who would fit either role.
While he can’t play both at the same time, Gaulden is preparing to get called up for either one. According to the Riot Report, he is already taking snaps at both nickel and safety.
If Gaulden is able to play either one of them well enough, it would be a major relief for the Panthers defense. However, they’ll still be at least one man short.
Look for Carolina to sign another defensive back or two between now and the start of the season.
