Carolina Panthers: 3 second-year players who could break out in 2020
By Dean Jones
Dennis Daley – OL
To say Dennis Daley was disappointing during his rookie campaign would be something of an understatement. The Carolina Panthers’ sixth-round pick in 2019 was thrown in at the deep end and did not cope well with the pressure.
Daley gave up seven sacks throughout the year and looked flustered with pass-rushers at the next level. However, a potential move into the guard spot could reignite the player and would take him out of the firing line on the outside.
If the Panthers’ coaching staff gives Daley another starting opportunity on the interior heading into next season, then it is critical that he takes advantage of it. The franchise brought in Michael Schofield to provide some competition in training camp, and his relationship with Russell Okung during their time with the Los Angeles Chargers is something that might give him a head start.
It is clear that Daley has much work to do in order to win over the new regime and the team’s fanbase. He is strong enough to make a real success at guard. But how he performs during the preseason and during whatever training camp takes place will determine his outlook next season.
Throwing him to the wolves last term has not done has undoubtedly knocked his confidence. The Panthers had little to play for and putting too much on Daley’s shoulders was not a prudent move by Ron Rivera.