How much will Curtis Samuel command in 2021 free agency?
By Dean Jones
Why the Carolina Panthers must re-sign Samuel
The Carolina Panthers should reward Curtis Samuel for his growing influence. He has more than proven his worth to the organization and replacing someone with his sort of skill set will probably end up costing them more.
As is the case with Taylor Moton, it doesn’t appear as if negotiations have begun as yet. This is always Carolina’s strategy when it comes to free agents whether you agree with it or not, so although it’s not time to panic just yet, waiting this long does come with its own set of complications.
And there is a chance Samuel won’t sign no matter what is offered.
Despite how well Samuel is playing and what a trusted target of Teddy Bridgewater‘s he’s become, the player is still a No. 4 option in the passing game behind D.J. Moore, Robby Anderson, and Christian McCaffrey.
This is the problem when you assemble so much talent.
The promise of a substantial role elsewhere would be a tempting proposition. This is why it’s essential for the Panthers not to put themselves in a position where Samuel is allowed to explore avenues and offers from elsewhere.
He is a key cog in any success that comes Carolina’s way and is another draft pick they struck big on with one of their first few selections. Letting another draftee walk before hitting their prime would be a big mistake and one only has to look at the way cornerback James Bradberry is performing on the New York Giants to see that.
Whether general manager Marty Hurney will be around in 2021 once his contract expires is up for debate. But re-signing Samuel to a multi-year deal would be a nice parting gift if he eventually moves on.