4 Carolina Panthers players who won’t be missed in 2021
By Dean Jones
Brandon Zylstra – Carolina Panthers WR
Brandon Zylstra deservedly earned a spot on the 53-man roster after a standout showing in training camp. The wide receiver was one of the stars of a disrupted preparation period and there were high hopes regarding more involvement on an offense that is loaded with playmakers.
If Zylstra impressed at camp, then it hasn’t shown since competitive action got underway. The Carolina Panthers have rarely opted to get the former CFL star involved despite no strong contender for the No. 4 wideout spot, with just four targets coming his way this season.
Four.
Obviously, the likes of D.J. Moore, Robby Anderson, and Curtis Samuel are going to command the lion’s share of touches. But considering how little the Panthers have used their tight ends and the absence of Christian McCaffrey, it does seem a little strange that other players such as Zylstra haven’t been more involved.
This is a damning indictment of what Carolina thinks of Zylstra’s chances moving forward and will probably come with his departure once his contract expires next spring.
Zylstra won’t be missed by the Panthers, of that there is little doubt. But it doesn’t make his situation any less disappointing and what comes next for the player remains to be seen.