Jets Rookies Ready vs. Carolina Panthers: Game Preview

The New York Jets will take on the Carolina Panthers in their second preseason game of the year. The game kicks off at 6:00 p.m. EST from Bank of America Field in Charlotte with New York looking for a second straight preseason victory ... and much, much more.

The Jets came out of their first preseason win with a 20-17 victory over the Washington Commanders. Rookie Malachi Corley was impressive in his debut with the Jets taking one kickoff 33 yards and fielding a punt for Gang Green. He also had four catches for 27 yards on offense.

His combination of skills makes him a player to watch for the Jets in this game as he battles for roster positioning. Another rookie to watch is running back Braelon Allen.

Allen rambled 54 yards on just six carries against the Commanders last week. At 6-1 and 235 pounds, the bruising running back out of Wisconsin is a fine complement to starter Breece Hall. If Allen continues on this path, he could definitely be the “thunder” to Hall’s “lightning” in the running game this season.

For the Panthers, it is still unclear if second-year quarterback Bryce Young will play in this game. If he does play, it will likely be limited. Jack Plummer, an undrafted rookie out of Louisville, will get the opportunity to play plenty of snaps.

Related: Jets Remain High on Braelon Allen's Development

Last week, Plummer went 11-of-21 for just 86 yards without a touchdown or an interception in a 17-3 loss to the New England Patriots last week. Plummer also took five sacks in the game.

One player to watch for the Panthers is fourth-year receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette, a fifth-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in 2021. He led the Panthers in receiving in last week’s loss.

The Jets and Panthers kickoff in Charlotte tonight at 6:00 p.m. EST