Tar Heels Make Carolina Panthers first unofficial depth chart Posted Aug 6, 2018 The Carolina Panthers released their first “unofficial” depth chart ahead of Thursday night’s preseason opener at the Buffalo Bills. Da'Norris Searcy is listed as the starting strong safety. Julius Peppers is a starting defensive end. Bug Howard is listed 6th at wide receiver. Elijah Hood is 5th at running back. And Andre Smith is the No. 3 strong-side linebacker. (Carolina Panthers)