Who Should I Start? Jalen Coker or Pat Bryant

Tuesday, June 17, 2:43 PM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker enjoyed a relatively productive rookie campaign in 2024, securing 32 of his 46 targets for 478 yards and two touchdowns. That's a solid season of productivity for an undrafted rookie out of Holy Cross, and he could be a contributor in 2025. However, Joe Person of The Athletic did not include Coker as a roster lock at wideout. He listed Adam Thielen, Tetairoa McMillan, and Xavier Legette as safely making the 53-man roster and mentioned rookie Jimmy Horn is likely to make the team thanks to his skills as a returner. The team only carried five wide receivers last season to begin the year, so that leaves Coker, Hunter Renfrow, Dan Chisena, David Moore, and Jacolby George potentially fighting for the last spot. "Special teams is going to be such a huge piece of that puzzle. How can these guys help us in the coverage units? Can they help us as a returner?" Head coach Dave Canales said. "That's the part where we get to challenge our guys to find a role, take this thing seriously. 'You're not here just to catch passes. We only get so many helmets on game day, so we need all of you guys to contribute in different ways." Coker is likely the "favorite" to win a roster spot, but this situation should be monitored. Should Coker not make the team, there should be plenty of interest in his services.

Sunday, July 27, 9:30 AM

According to Zac Stevens, rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant has been impressing the organization early in training camp. Bryant is getting open, making plays, and showing he can be a legitimate threat in this offense right away. The Broncos used a third-round pick to select Bryant during this year's draft. He's currently slated as the fourth wideout behind Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, and Devaughn Vele on the depth chart. Despite that, Bryant has a chance to jump even higher on the depth chart before the season begins. If his success continues, Bryant could be an impact player at the start of the regular season.