We’re 79 days away from the Carolina Panthers 2021 season opener, so that means today’s countdown piece is devoted to No. 79 on the roster — defensive tackle Mike Panasiuk.
Panasiuk signed with the Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2020 and was waived in the team’s final roster cut. The Panthers signed him to their practice squad in October, and signed him to a reserve/future contract in January.
Panasiuk doesn’t have any NFL game experience, so here’s a recap of his college career from his profile on the team’s website:
Played four years at Michigan State, seeing action in 51 games with 41 starts. Totaled 100 tackles (40 solo), including 18 for loss, four sacks, two interceptions, six passes defensed and one forced fumble. As a senior in 2019, played in 13 games with 12 starts, posting a career-high 36 tackles (13), including nine for loss, two sacks, one fumble recovery and two passes defensed. Named honorable mention All-Big Ten by media and coaches and named second-team All-Big Ten by Pro Football Focus.
Panasiuk (6-3, 295) will be competing for a depth spot at defensive tackle with veteran journeyman Caraun Reid and rookie Phil Hoskins, who was selected in the seventh round (No. 232 overall) in the 2021 draft.
Let’s hear from you, Panthers fans. Do you think Panasiuk has a chance to make the 53-man roster? Why or why not? Share your thoughts with us!