One dangerous newcomer for every team on Panthers’ 2020 schedule
By Dean Jones
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rob Gronkowski – TE
Big things are expected of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. This is down to their incredible offseason of activity. And it appears they are all-in on winning a Super Bowl with Tom Brady under center.
Another eye-catching arrival was their trade for Rob Gronkowski, who is widely regarded as one of the great tight ends in NFL history. He is back on a roster after coming out of retirement. And the year away should have done his body the world of good.
Gronkowski might take a while to get up to game speed. But if he is anything like the player of old, then it is going to be a real problem for the Panthers to handle.
Los Angeles Chargers: Linval Joseph – DT
One of the more notable arrivals to the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency was the addition of Linval Joseph. The imposing defensive tackle has been a prolific performer in recent years with the Minnesota Vikings. And he is coming off a Pro Bowl campaign in 2019.
Joseph is a stout presence to move off the block. While he might be past his best due to his advancing years. There is definite potential for the player to cause considerable problems for the Carolina Panthers and their suspect offensive line interior.
The Chargers are something of an enigma in 2020. They have all the tools needed to make a real go of things in the postseason. But they are such a frustrating team who often fail to produce the goods when it matters most.
Arizona Cardinals: DeAndre Hopkins – WR
The Cardinals pulled off a masterstroke when they traded for elite wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins this offseason. They paid minimal compensation to the Houston Texans compared to his exceptional resume. And this has the potential to propel second-year quarterback Kyler Murray to new heights.
Hopkins is still one of the best in the business in no uncertain terms. His hands are among the greatest ever for a wideout. And his route-running is good enough to create separation at will.
Arizona is fancied to go on a postseason run in 2020. Hopkins is a major reason for this, and he is sure to make this trade look even more foolish down the line.