4 sneaky threats the Panthers should watch out for vs. Bears
By Dean Jones
Darnell Mooney – WR
It would be remiss of the Carolina Panthers not to focus most of their attention on Allen Robinson. The stud wide receiver is now considered one of the NFL’s best on the outside and there is no denying the fact he has hit his stride quickly in 2020 despite ongoing complications regarding a contract extension.
However, one player that should also be highlighted as a potential sneaky threat is Darnell Mooney. The wideout has transitioned to the next level seamlessly after being taken in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft and he promises to have a big future in the game if this is a trend that continues going forward.
Mooney has 15 receptions from 25 targets during the first five weeks of his rookie campaign. This has resulted in 160 receiving yards, seven first downs, one touchdown, and a 63.7 grade from Pro Football Focus. He is sure to get some extra space to work in thanks to the presence of Robinson and tight end Jimmy Graham, two prominent pass-catchers who have been ultra-consistent during their respective careers.
The former Tulane star is a quality route-runner for someone so young and has shown a nice ability to catch under pressure at the pro level. If the Panthers don’t take his playmaking ability seriously it is going to come with some complications.