{
  "id": 3947060,
  "title": "4 Panthers players to watch in Friday's preseason finale vs. Texans",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/4-panthers-players-to-watch-in-fridays-preseason-finale-vs-texans",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-28T11:02:54.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/4-panthers-players-watch-fridays-110254882.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the preseason schedule winds down, the Carolina Panthers will take on the Houston Texans in a preseason finale on Friday at Bank of America Stadium. With head coaches Dave Canales and DeMeco Ryans opting not to feature their starters, fans can expect to see a strong showing from backup players and those vying for more significant roles. Here are four players to watch during this crucial game:\n\n1. Running Back AJ Dillon: While Chuba Hubbard has been sidelined and Jonathon Brooks has struggled with run-blocking, Dillon has been the standout performer from the backfield. His impressive explosiveness as a rusher and his catch-and-run abilities make him a potential candidate for a roster spot.\n\n2. Wide Receiver John Metchie III: Currently leading the team in preseason receptions, Metchie might face challenges to secure his place on the roster. His performance during the joint practice with the Texans, where he scored a 30-yard touchdown, could influence the Panthers' decision on his future with the team.\n\n3. Outside Linebacker Cam Gill: Returning to Carolina from the UFL, Gill has brought an improved pass rush to the Panthers. With four pressures in three preseason games, he has earned a spot as the team's third-highest graded defender by Pro Football Focus. Gill may provide the much-needed depth on the edge, especially after Nic Scourton's season-ending ACL injury.\n\n4. Cornerback Corey Thornton: In a surprising turn of events, Thornton might be competing for the nickel position against Chau Smith-Wade. While Thornton has struggled in coverage, a strong performance in this game could help him climb the ranks and prove his worth as one of last summer's top defenders.",
  "summary": "Quite a few Panthers may be fighting for their jobs on Friday night. Here are a handful of players to keep an eye on in the preseason finale . . .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Golf.com",
        "title": "2026 FM Championship Friday TV coverage: How to watch Round 2",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/2026-fm-championship-friday-tv-coverage-how-to-watch-round-2",
        "published": "2026-08-28T09:52:58.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}