Boulware on Panthers roster chances: 'I've done my job'

Brandon Rink by Staff Writer -

Former Clemson linebacker Ben Boulware has one exhibition left in hopes of making the Carolina Panthers roster to start the season.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera told reporters Tuesday that their numbers at each position are "very fluid" in how it all adds up to a 53-man roster.

"We’re not set on any numbers as much as we’re looking to have the best 53 players too," Rivera said.

By all accounts, the All-American defender has plenty of ground to make up after limited action in three preseason games thus far. The final roster cuts will happen this weekend after Carolina hosts the Pittsburgh Steelers Thursday night at 7:30 p.m.

The latest Charlotte Observer 53-man projection listed Carolina as only carrying six linebackers and Boulware not in that mix.

The Anderson native says he's put his best foot forward while in camp, after signing as an undrafted free agent.

“I feel good. I feel like I’m a trustworthy player, an accountable guy, and every time I’ve gotten in on defense or special teams, I’ve done my job," Boulware told the Observer, which tallied up 20 defensive and 25 special teams snaps for him this preseason (no tackles).

Rivera emphasized the chance Thursday for Boulware and the rest of a 90-man group seeking to stick with the Panthers.

“The guys that are going to get an opportunity later in the game are all competing," Rivera said. "At the end of the day, we have an idea (of the roster). There are also some other guys we want to see. This is about as much pressure as it gets as far as getting opportunities.

"We’ll find out who will make plays and be playmakers under this type of situation."

Boulware will likely have a chance to sign with the Panthers practice squad if other playing options aren't available. Rivera says he feels good about the roster makeup for the season opener Sept. 10 at San Francisco, but some players he admires won't make that trip.

"We know we’re going to cut some really good football players that deserve an opportunity somewhere," said Rivera.

Have patience...

Your time will come. pic.twitter.com/tjO3ufN25C — Ben Boulware (@benboulware7) August 25, 2017