Carolina Panthers: Five players to watch vs. Patriots
Jul 31, 2015; Spartanburg, SC, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Devin Funchess (17) looks to catch a pass during training camp held at Wofford College. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
4. Devin Funchess, WR
With Cam Newton’s top target Kelvin Benjamin out for the season, all eyes are on Funchess to have a monster rookie season in Carolina.
The only problem is, he needs to find a way to stay on the field. Funchess is working his way back to the lineup, and he’ll play a key role whenever he gets back there permanently, but he needs to get back soon or the Panthers’ passing game will be in big trouble.
Game on the line.@Panthers need a score...
— NFL (@NFL) August 25, 2015
Cam has no problem relying on the rookie: http://t.co/1afFaIyqYL pic.twitter.com/nwXGMci8q8
Coming out of Michigan, I wasn’t overly high on Funchess. He originally played tight end at Michigan, and switched to receiver this past year. His upside is obviously phenomenal with his size and athletic ability, but does he have the quickness and route running savvy to play WR in the NFL and be good at it early? It’s going to take some work, but the Panthers have coaches in place to make it happen. Hopefully, we get an extended look at Funchess in this preseason game.
Next: Daryl Williams