Carolina Panthers: Will speed kill for the offense in 2020?

How much will dynamic speed on offense be for the Carolina Panthers in 2020?

To say that the Carolina Panthers have some dynamic offensive weapons heading into 2020 would be a big understatement. The team appears loaded with players that could make a real difference to their fortunes. And things look incredibly promising if quarterback Teddy Bridgewater gets enough time to distribute the ball.

Much will depend on how a patchwork offensive line holds up. But with coordinator Joe Brady pulling the strings for the Carolina Panthers next season. All signs point to the team being able to put some significant points on the board.

Speed is all the rage in today’s NFL. And the Panthers have that in abundance. According to Daniel Jeremiah at NFL.com, those occupying skill positions in 11 personnel are ranked in the NFL’s top five when it comes to pace.

This analysis was based on the 40-yard dash times from every player projected to start across the league. Although this is just a small element of producing on the field. It does leave the organization with an explosive element to their offense that hasn’t been seen in Carolina for quite some time.

It is vital that Brady and new head coach Matt Rhule use this speed to their advantage. The former LSU passing guru knows what it takes to build a successful scheme. And the coach has an embarrassment of riches to call upon.

Just how fast are the Carolina Panthers on offense?

Judging by their 40-yard times, those turning out on offense for the Carolina Panthers in 2020 have the necessary pace to burn. Leading the way is No. 3 wideout Curtis Samuel, who clocked a 4.31-second time that also makes a successful transition to the field.

The former Ohio State standout is explosive out of his cuts to go along with his immense quickness. He is also incredibly elusive with the ball in his hands. Samuel is coming off a career year and there could be much more to come from the player heading into the final year of his deal.

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Coming in second on the list is free-agent signing Robby Anderson, who attained a 4.36 second time. The receiver has already proven to be an incredible threat downfield during his time with the New York Jets. And his numbers would look far different had he benefitted from a productive signal-caller at MetLife Stadium.

No. 1 option D.J. Moore could be set for great things next time around after reaching the 1,000-yard milestone in 2019. The player ran a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and has the route-running expertise to match his impressive burst.

The sky is the limit if Moore clicks with Bridgewater right away. Another increase in productivity would see the wideout enter the elite conversation and will undoubtedly come with a substantial financial reward next spring.

All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey ran 4.48 seconds, which is evident every time the former Stanford standout steps onto the field. His first three years in the NFL have been nothing short of phenomenal. And in addition to being the best dual-threat player at the position, he is also the new face of the franchise.

Speed is something the Panthers haven’t had at the tight end spot in recent years. Greg Olsen was a tremendous contributor. But this wasn’t down to his burst and was more focused on using his exceptional football IQ to create separation.

Ian Thomas will be the starting option in 2020 and he comes with a 40-yard dash time of 4.74 seconds. This is something that Brady can utilize in a variety of different ways. And the player could become a secret weapon of sorts for an offense that is going to be extremely fun to watch.