The NFL changed the practice squad rules for the 2020 season to account for players going on IR due to the pandemic. In addition to expanding from 10 to 16 players, teams can choose four protected players every week that other teams cannot sign.
Here are the top four candidates on the current Carolina Panthers to take those spots going into this season.
QB Will Grier
Last season, the Panthers rolled with Will Grier as their third quarterback on the roster behind Cam Newton and Kyle Allen despite a poor showing during the preseason. Late in the year, Grier looked no better in his two starts. This protected practice squad idea is perfect for him, though. Grier gets more time to develop while allowing P.J. Walker to take over as the primary backup behind Teddy Bridgewater. It also prevents other teams from poaching him, which would cost Carolina a wasted third-round pick.