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Panthers release first unofficial depth chart of 2020

Derrick Brown

CHARLOTTE — The Panthers on Monday released their first unofficial depth chart of the season. It's worth emphasizing that the depth chart is not official and is subject to change not only for Sunday's contest against the Raiders but also throughout the season.

But for the sake of discussion, here are a few elements that stand out:

— At least three of the Panthers' 2020 draft picks are listed as starters: defensive tackle Derrick Brown, defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, and cornerback Troy Pride Jr.

— Safety Jeremy Chinn is essentially on the first-team defense as well. The strongside linebacker position has an "or" between Chinn and linebacker Jermaine Carter. With most teams employing three wide-receiver formations as their base offense, Chinn is expected to see significant playing time.

— While Pride is among the first-team defense on the depth chart, the Panthers have not officially announced a starter. With Eli Apple going on reserve/injured, Corn Elder could also compete for snaps at corner. Also, newly acquired Rasul Douglas has started 18 games over the last three years with the Eagles. Elder and Douglas are second-team players on the initial depth chart.

— Backup quarterback also has an "or" designation between Will Grier and P.J. Walker. The No. 2 role could change from one week to the next depending on who performs well in practice.

— From left to right, the starting offensive line reads like this: Russell Okung, Dennis Daley, Matt Paradis, John Miller, and Taylor Moton. Greg Little, a 2019 second-round pick, is the backup left tackle. Veteran Michael Schofield is listed as the backup right guard, but with no one named behind Daley, Schofield could potentially fill in at left guard if needed. Daley is currently dealing with an ankle injury.

DJ Moore and Robby Anderson are the two first-team wide receivers since Carolina also lists fullback Alex Armah as a starter. But Curtis Samuel will be out there often when the Panthers use three wideouts. Seth Roberts is the other second-team wide receiver.

— Chris Manhertz slots in as the first-team tight end with Ian Thomas second, but both players will play plenty.

— Pharoh Cooper, an All-Pro returner for the Rams in 2017, is listed as both the No. 1 kick returner and punt returner. Carolina has Moore as the backup punt returner and Trenton Cannon as the backup kick returner.

View photos from Monday morning's practice as Carolina prepares for the Raiders in Week 1.

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