4 underhyped Carolina Panthers heading into 2020

Carolina Panthers Player No. 2: Keith Kirkwood (WR)

The Carolina Panthers have plenty of weapons that can do some real damage on offense heading into the season. Much will depend on how their patchwork offensive line holds out. But if they can give Teddy Bridgewater enough time in the pocket, then the sky is the limit for this group.

Their top-three players at the position appear cemented with D.J. Moore, Robby Anderson, and Curtis Samuel. But there are plenty of talented individuals who are also competing for their share of targets.

One such player is Keith Kirkwood, who arrived in Carolina on a one-year deal that will pay him a base salary of $750,000 in 2020. He has a previous relationship with Bridgewater and offensive coordinator Joe Brady from their time together with the New Orleans Saints. And he could be an underhyped wildcard for the Panthers if he impresses during training camp.

Kirkwood will need to beat out Pharoh Cooper and Seth Roberts for minutes on the field. But there is plenty to like about the sort of skills he brings to the table. The wideout’s familiarity with the scheme is another huge plus with little time to prepare before Carolina’s week one opener against the Las Vegas Raiders.

The player is a good size at 6-foot-3 to make a difference, especially in red-zone situations. He didn’t see much in the way of action for the Saints last season. But his 2018 form resulted in 13 receptions, 209 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.

Brady will know how to get the best out of Kirkwood. And this could be another formidable weapon for the Panthers to call upon when required.