4 reasons the Panthers will be better in 2020 than last season
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers Reason No. 1: More consistent quarterback play
The Carolina Panthers had some struggles at quarterback in 2019, to put it mildly. Cam Newton spent most of the season on the sidelines. And this played a leading role in the organization moving on from the 2015 NFL MVP this offseason.
Kyle Allen showed brief glimpses of promise. But the signal-caller was widely inconsistent and was subsequently traded to the Washington Football Team prior to the NFL Draft.
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Carolina also gave some time under center to Will Grier, which was nothing short of a disaster. The rookie was simply not ready to see the field. And there is just no telling what this experience has done for his long-term aspirations.
This lack of consistency played a leading role in their eventual downfall. But things look far more promising next time around. Teddy Bridgewater was the Panthers’ biggest free-agent pickup on a three-year, $63 million deal with a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million guaranteed. And he is sure to provide a more assured presence.
Bridgewater has worked hard for another starting opportunity. And he comes to Carolina with a career pass completion percentage of 65.2. This increased to 67.9% with the New Orleans Saints in 2019, where the quarterback went 5-0 in Drew Brees’ absence.
The Panthers are absolutely loaded with offensive weapons next season. However, they will only go as far as Bridgewater takes them.
His accuracy has been a standout feature of his game since entering the NFL as a first-round pick. And the sky is the limit if he can keep this up next time around.