Carolina Panthers assess roster hopefuls in 2026 Hall of Fame preseason game

Wide receiver Ja’seem Reed entered the Panthers’ preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals with an expanded role after rookie Chris Brazzell II was sidelined by a torn LCL. Reed, praised for his size and dynamism, aimed to convert his training‑camp momentum into a spot on the 53‑man roster, while a practice‑squad placement remains possible if he falls short.

Tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders also saw action despite a recent ankle injury and the absence of other starters. His snap count dropped after the first drive, reflecting his lower position on the depth chart behind Mitchell Evans and Tommy Tremble. Sanders’ performance will be weighed as the Panthers finalize their third‑down specialist options and overall roster composition.

The Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Panthers and Cardinals, provided a low‑stakes environment for fringe players to showcase their abilities as coaches evaluate talent ahead of the regular season.