Ahead of the Carolina Panthers in Week 3 of the NFL preseason is serious decision-making. 

After the game, there is a looming Tuesday deadline to get the roster down to 53, which won't be easy. Friday's preseason bout has a little more to it than just another offensive tune-up — it is the team's last chance to see many of its players in game action before making hard roster decisions through the weekend and into Tuesday. 

So, let's look at three players to watch during the game against the Lions. These players aren't necessarily players on the bubble; they are more players who need to have a good game — regardless of their current standing on the roster. 

DT, Raequan Williams

Raequan Williams is going to be forced into a larger role after the Carolina Panthers elected to cut Marquan McCall earlier in the week. Now, it is up to Williams to prove that decision right. Against the Lions, it will be his second time playing big minutes in the preseason in 2023. It will be a game where he stakes his claim as the starting defensive tackle heading into the regular season. 

QB, Bryce Young

Bryce Young is going to play in the final preseason game for the Carolina Panthers. And he should. He hasn’t looked great through the first two preseason games. The counting stats tell the story. However, he has one more opportunity before the start of the regular season to show what the offense has the potential to be with him as the signal caller. Watch for him to unleash a little bit more of his offensive capabilities against the Detroit Lions. 

QB, Matt Corral

Second-year quarterback Matt Corral is the odd man out in a quarterback room with Andy Dalton and Bryce Young. Through the first two games, he has looked okay at best. And with Week 3 being his last chance to show that he deserves a spot on the roster, look for him to try and show the full array of his skill set. 

Feature image via Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports.