Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales has stated that starters will not play against the Houston Texans on Friday night in the teams’ final preseason matchup. Carolina comes into the last week of preseason off an impressive win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although the starters may not be taking the field, there are a lot of individuals who are trying to make a final impression to either earn a roster spot or a vital role in the Panthers vision this season.
With QB Bryce Young watching from the sidelines on Friday, Kenny Pickett and Kyle Trask will take the snaps for the Panthers. Haynes King is still battling a hamstring injury and will not be available. Pickett has seen the most time under center this preseason so do not be surprised if it is actually Trask who gets more playing time against the Texans to try and prove the depth Carolina has at the quarterback position.
The wide receivers Carolina runs out onto the field on Friday will have a lot of eyes on them. We know the ability Tetairoa McMillan possesses but the Panthers are still looking to solidify pieces around him to increase the weapons Young has to work with. Xavier Legette also has that potential but he will be sidelined with an ankle injury.
Jalen Coker and Jimmy Horn Jr. are two candidates for breakout seasons in 2026-2027 but there are other receivers who will be looking to prove they have what it takes to play on regular season Sundays. Casey Washington and John Metchie III are two players that fans should have a close eye on.
On the defensive side of the ball, everyone who takes the field is trying to make a statement. It is no secret heading into the regular season the Panthers defensive frontline has the makings of becoming their kryptonite. Anyone who can provide a spark and make plays defensively on Friday will stand out and could help Carolina shape themselves into the team they want to be.
While the final preseason game with no starters does not sound intriguing to the average fan, there is still quite a bit at stake on Friday. Rather than focusing on the outcome of the game and looking at how the team performs collectively, this contest is serving almost as more of a tryout and the observations from the Panthers’ staff will be more personal than team oriented.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. ET in Charlotte at Bank of America Stadium. The game will be available for fans to watch on ABC.
News to Note: Carolina must cut its roster to 53 players by 6:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 30th.
