5 Panthers players who are the cornerstones of future success
By Dean Jones
D.J. Moore – Carolina Panthers WR
After an inconsistent start to the 2020 season, D.J. Moore has gradually risen in stature to confirm his place among the NFL’s best at the position. He looks well on course to reach 1,000-yards receiving once again despite some chemistry issues with quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and if these can be rectified at the bye week, then it might see the former first-round pick best the career-high 1,175 yards he attained in 2019.
Robby Anderson’s hot start to life with the Carolina Panthers left some questioning whether Moore would be able to hold his position as the team’s No. 1 receiving option. This is a challenge he has taken on with customary determination and he remains a focal point on offense.
Moore’s route-running has been exceptional this season and a marked improvement to anything we’ve seen during his career so far. This has resulted in 50 receptions, 924 receiving yards, 42 first downs, and four touchdowns.
His 56.2 percent completion success rate is a little low for a wideout of his quality. But a lot of this can be attributed to Moore’s lack of chemistry with Bridgewater that’s improved somewhat as the season’s gone on without quite being on-point as yet.
Hopefully, Moore’s ankle injury won’t hamper his ability to make a contribution down the stretch. Even if the player doesn’t recover in time, his importance to the organization cannot be overlooked.