4 early candidates for Carolina Panthers’ training camp MVP
By Dean Jones
Curtis Samuel – WR
Expectations are high regarding a true breakout year for Curtis Samuel in 2020. He has been one of the shining lights of training camp so far. And it is clear he is a man on a mission.
The former Ohio State standout has come up with plenty of outstanding plays during team drills and padded practices. Samuel’s quick-feet and sharp route-running is something that has been prevalent throughout. All this bodes well for his chances of reaching the 1,000-yard mark next season.
The Carolina Panthers are evidently keen to get the ball in Samuel’s hands early and often during the season. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady heaped praise on the wideout for the impression he has made so far. And it would not be a total shock to see him gain a substantial role in 2020 and possibly beyond.
Whether this will be in Carolina or elsewhere is another matter. Samuel is heading into the final year of his rookie deal and is looking for a significant pay rise more in-keeping with his supreme skill set.
Putting together another encouraging campaign in 2020 is going to put him in pole position to get a big-money deal. And although this might not be the player’s primary objective heading into the season. The urgency and intensity to which he is approaching every session at camp is something that has clearly stepped up a level.