Zakee Wheatley emerges as Panthers' top fantasy safety after Packers loss

The Carolina Panthers fell to the Green Bay Packers 27-19 on Thursday night, a loss that led to the firing of defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero on Friday. Despite the team's struggles, rookie safety Zakee Wheatley stood out as a bright spot in the secondary during the game at Lambeau Field. Wheatley recorded his first career NFL interception against Jordan Love, a play that highlighted his potential in a defensive unit that has otherwise given up 70 points over the last two games.

According to Sports Illustrated, Wheatley has played in six games and started four of them since being inactive for the season opener. Pro Football Focus grades him as the No. 3 safety in pass coverage with an 83.4 score, trailing only Evan Williams and Julian Love. The fifth-round pick has accumulated 25 defensive stops, four passes defensed, and one forced fumble through seven weeks of action.

Fantasy impact

Wheatley's role has solidified as a key piece of the Panthers' defense under interim coordinator Todd Wash. While the defense ranks 30th against the run, Wheatley's production in coverage and playmaking ability makes him a reliable option for fantasy managers needing a safety who can score points via turnovers.

What to do

Start Zakee Wheatley in all leagues because he is already a starter who has recorded an interception and four passes defensed. His high PFF grade in coverage suggests he will continue to face passing targets even as the Panthers try to fix their overall defensive struggles.

Monitor the performance of the new defensive scheme under Todd Wash, as the team aims to get "everybody on the same page" according to reports. If the secondary improves, Wheatley could see more opportunities for big plays, but his current volume of defensive stops makes him a safe weekly option regardless of the matchup.