One dangerous newcomer for every team on Panthers’ 2020 schedule
By Dean Jones
Atlanta Falcons: Todd Gurley – RB
Todd Gurley arrives in Atlanta with plenty of uncertainty. He looked well past the peak of his powers in 2019 and it appears that injuries might also be taking their toll on the two-time All-Pro.
That being said, if the running back manages to get back to anything like his old self, it is going to be a significant asset for the Falcons. It is easy to forget that Gurley is still just 26-years-old. And he now has a substantial chip on his shoulder after being released by the Los Angeles Rams.
Gurley might find running in-between the tackles during his two games against the Carolina Panthers next season. This is down in no small part to the presence of Kawann Short and No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown at the defensive tackle spot.
Chicago Bears: Robert Quinn – EDGE
The Bears have some concerns from an offensive perspective in 2020. But the same cannot be said about their outstanding defense that continues to be an area of real strength.
They further bolstered their options with the free-agent signing of Robert Quinn, who enjoyed something of a renaissance with the Dallas Cowboys last season.
The All-Pro finished the campaign with 11.5 sacks to take his career total to 80.5 over a nine-year period. The Carolina Panthers’ offensive line might be much-improved on the edge with Taylor Moton and Russell Okung. But Quinn’s talent is enough to give anybody problems.
New Orleans Saints: Emmanuel Sanders – WR
As if the Saints needed any more weapons on offense. The organization is going all-out for Drew Brees during what is expected to be his final season before retirement. And the acquisition of Emmanuel Sanders is another primary target for the signal-caller to utilize throughout the campaign.
Sanders is a proven winner in the NFL who played a significant role for the NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers in 2019. He has a quality blend of speed, route-running ability, and ability to catch well under pressure. The wide receiver knows how to get the job done when it matters most. And it is clear that the sky is the limit in New Orleans.