LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 19: Running back Fozzy Whittaker #43 of the Carolina Panthers carries the ball against the Washington Redskins in the fourth quarter at FedExField on December 19, 2016 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Can Fozzy Whittaker keep his roster spot with the Carolina Panthers this training camp?

Often forgotten, Fozzy Whittaker has quietly been effective when his number has been called with the Carolina Panthers. He has averaged over 4.3 yards per carry in his three seasons in Carolina, serving as a change of pace back and a third down receiving back.

Whittaker has also served as a kick returner for this special teams unit, so it raises the question if there is any chance he makes the roster this season?

When Carolina used its first two draft picks of the 2017 NFL Draft on Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel, players with very similar skill sets, it seemed Whittaker’s time was running out in Charlotte.

How can Whittaker keep his roster spot?

The Panthers re-signed Whittaker during free agency to a two-year deal after he came off career highs in rushing yards and receiving yards. Whittaker developed a key role in the Panthers backfield last season, earning playing time in each game.

One wildcard for Whittaker is how the coaching staff views him fitting into this new, evolving offense. This is a change that could actually benefit Whittaker and he could play a very vital role in the upcoming season.

Allowing the offense to be even more versatile, personnel groupings of Whittaker, McCaffrey and Samuel offer interchangeable backs capable of both running and receiving.

Where is the room on the depth chart for Whittaker?

The departure of Mike Tolbert this offseason hints toward the Panthers’ offense moving away from the traditional fullback. There are a few fullbacks on the roster and the team did draft Alex Armah in the 6th round. However, Armah could serve as a swiss army knife or an H-Back/tight end much like Richie Brockel used to in his time in Carolina.

So opting to add more speed to the offense, Whittaker’s skill set and his ability to play special teams can ultimately earn him a roster spot and a role in the offense in spite of popular opinion that his days are numbered.