Carolina Panthers Week 3 awards from victory at Chargers

Curtis Samuel – Carolina Panthers WR

This had all the makings of a breakout game for Curtis Samuel. There were high hopes that the do-it-all offensive weapon could replicate some of the numbers needed in Christian McCaffrey’s absence. But it proved to be another frustrating afternoon for the player.

Samuel did see more in the way of touches at the Chargers, which only heightens the level of disappointment regarding his overall production. The former Ohio State standout caught four balls thrown his way for 45 yards. But he mustered just seven yards rushing from four carries.

This continues to be a problem for both the player and offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who was more than eager for Samuel to showcase his incredible skillset when the opportunity arises. Something is just not clicking at the moment, which is not only hampering the second-round pick’s production, but also his strength at the bargaining table next spring.

This might just be an early-season blip as Samuel finds his place in the Carolina Panthers’ new offense. However, if this continues before the trade deadline then it might result in the organization fielding calls for a player they might end up losing for nothing next year.

Samuel has accumulated 11 catches for 96 yards over the first three games of the campaign. He wasn’t aided by Brady’s intent to run him up the middle, so if the former LSU passing guru can find the solution to maximize his worth, then it might be the springboard behind this offense becoming even better.