ESPN names Panthers' biggest needs as roster cuts approach

As the Carolina Panthers and the rest of the NFL's 31 teams prepare to reduce their rosters from 90 players to 53, ESPN's Mike Kaye has highlighted the team's three most pressing needs. The most critical issue, according to Kaye, is the competition between Trevin Wallace and Claudin Cherelus for the off-ball linebacker position, which is currently between Lloyd and the duo.

Neither player has managed to stand out in the summer competition, and Coach Dave Canales has acknowledged this, describing their performances as "head-to-head" and "neck-and-neck" as they enter the final week of preseason. The Panthers may not have to strictly rely on the waiver wire to address this issue, as veterans like Bobby Wagner, Bobby Okereke, and even experienced player Shaq Thompson could be potential reinforcements.

In addition to the linebacker position, the defensive line is another significant concern for the Panthers. The team's defensive line currently lacks depth, particularly with the return of Tershawn Wharton contingent on his recovery from injury. The position has been plagued by inconsistent performances, and the future of Nic Scourton remains uncertain, further complicating matters.

Lastly, the guard position has also been a concern for the Panthers, as their previous investments in players Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt have not yielded the desired results. The team's reliance on backups, including Brady Christensen, remains questionable, and the position may require a more substantial overhaul.