3 hurdles Robby Anderson must overcome with the Panthers in 2020
By Dean Jones
Target distribution
Robby Anderson might have been the man with the New York Jets. But that does not appear to be the case with the Carolina Panthers. They are absolutely loaded on offense heading into the season, so it will be vital he makes the most out of whatever share of targets the player gets.
The Panthers have D.J. Moore as their primary option at wide receiver, who could be set for superstardom if he takes another leap forward in 2020. There is also the presence of Curtis Samuel to consider given his ability to score every time he touches the ball.
Samuel might even surpass Anderson as the No. 2 option if he outperforms the free-agent signing. This is a challenge that the wideout has been clearly relishing at training camp if his performances during team drills are any indication.
Anderson has been given 114, 94, and 96 targets over the last three years with the Jets. It is highly unlikely he is going to get anywhere near these sorts of numbers in Carolina. But there is a chance the field could open up if Teddy Bridgewater connects well over the middle and All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey continues to generate more focus from opposing defenses.
Everything is in place for Anderson to succeed with the Panthers. Being the team’s second or even third receiving option might take some getting used to. But he is experienced enough to cope with whatever is put in front of him.