With week 1 of the preseason in the books, we have a better idea of the status of the players who will end up making the team. A lot could change, but this team seems more set than in the past early in the preseason.

Quarterback

Starter: Cam Newton

Depth: Taylor Heinicke, Garrett Gilbert

We know Cam is the starter. The back up QB position is what we want to look at here. Based on how reps were distributed after week 1 of the preseason, it seems like Heinicke will get a shot as the QB2 next week. Heinicke performed well against 3rd and 4th string players, lets see how he does against the second team. If he can continue to excel, I think that QB2 spot is his.

Running Backs

Starter: Christian McCaffery

Full Back: Alex Armah

Depth: C.J. Anderson, Cameron Artis Payne

Because of the retention of a third quarterback, I think the team rolls with 3 RBs and stashes a back up on the practice squad. Armah makes the team as a FB, who will also factor in as a blocker and receiving option. Nobody else has really set themselves apart in the RB room, Elijah Hood would probably be a fine PS stash here. Kenjon Barner would have to make it as a returner and currently Carolina has a lot of guys who can do that and more.

Wide Receiver

Starters: Torrey Smith, Devin Funchess

Depth: Jarius Wright, D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel, Damiere Byrd

There hasn’t been much to indicate that Smith isn’t running with the starters as of late. However, one should note that Carolina has always been a team where receivers are interchangeable depending on the situation and personnel package. I’d still expect plenty of Jarius Wright, and based on Moore’s numbers so far I think he will have a good snap count week 1. Samuel and Byrd both bring game breaking speed and should be used accordingly. I think Byrd makes it here because of his ability as a returner and as a guy Cam has made plays with as a receiver in the past. Probably the best group he’s had since Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell in 2013.

Tight End

Starter: Greg Olsen

Depth: Ian Thomas, Jason Vander Laan

Olsen will still be a big part of the offense. Based on the preseason so far, the Panthers like having Thomas on the field. I think he could potentially have taken the TE2 position even after Chris Manhertz returns. With Armah factoring in as well, I don’t see them keeping more than 3 TEs and I think Vander Laan is gone once Manhertz returns.

Offensive Line

Starters: Matt Kalil, Tyler Larsen, Ryan Kalil, Trai Turner, Taylor Moton

Depth: Greg Van Roten, Jeremiah Sirles, Blaine Clausell, Brendan Mahon

Daryl Williams should hit IR week 1, leaving the Panthers terribly thin at tackle, which is why I have three tackles here. Sirles, Mahon, and Van Roten will have to be the back up guards and centers here. However, tackle will be a concern week to week if somebody gets hurt. But at guard they seem to have it figured out. I think based on the investment in a Tyler Larsen extension that he ends up the starting LG, but Van Roten could very easily be the guy as well. I don’t think they run with Mahon there to start the season, especially with Matt Kalil a major variable at left tackle.

What are your thoughts? Did we miss anybody? Any surprise cuts here?