Panthers Week 2 snap counts spotlight more youth on defense and a stubborn, recurring reliance on Nick Scott. Lathan Ransom barely edges into more snaps (nine to twelve) while Princely Umanmielen flashes in limited action with a sack and a pressure, yet still isn’t on the field enough. Xavier Legette continues heavy targets as WR2 despite rough efficiency, prompting calls for Brycen Tremayne or David Moore to seize downs.

The unit shows improved pass rush, but late first-half and start-of-second-quarter breakdowns persist. With Umanmielen thriving in limited snaps, Carolina faces tough calls on rotation, especially around Legette’s role and the WR corps, ahead of Week 3.

Carolina faces a defensive rebuild after last year’s historic struggles, but Derrick Brown’s return anchors a revamped line that also features multiple free-agent signees and several rookies. If the newcomers adapt quickly, the Panthers could flip from the league’s worst run defense to something closer to mediocre in 2025, with veteran Adam Thielen adding steadying depth to an offense that can relieve pressure on a thinner defense.

Brown’s presence matters, but it won’t single-handedly fix a leaky unit. The success hinges on how quickly Tetairoa McMillan, Lathan Ransom, Princely Umanmielen, and Nic Scourton contribute, plus how Moehrig, Rozeboom and Wharton perform alongside the new linemen. For fantasy, it’s a nuanced mix: Brown remains a stalwart, while the value of Panthers defenders and receivers grows with improved team efficiency.

Preseason stock shifts center on a handful of rookies making the jump toward real-season roles. Isaac TeSlaa exploded for Detroit, hauling in 10 balls for 146 yards with three touchdowns and earning an elite 84.0 PFF receiving grade, signaling regular-season snaps behind a crowded WR corps. Jaxson Dart’s hot preseason pushed him into Week 1 consideration for New York, while Walter Nolen’s calf situation for Arizona echoes last year’s Darius Robinson saga. Dylan Fairchild is rising for Cincinnati as a potential starter, with notable injuries and depth elsewhere shaping how soon these players become fantasy factors.

others such as Maxwell Hairston (Buffalo), Darius Robinson (Arizona), and Lathan Ransom (Carolina) are watched for health and role changes, while Kenneth Grant (Miami) could lock into a front that shapes the defensive line. Tyler Shough’s stock-down note adds a veteran caution flag to the mix. Overall, the preseason produced a clearer path for late-round darts and dynasty stash candidates as rosters settle.