4 most important Panthers players vs. the Saints in Week 17
By Dean Jones
Curtis Samuel – Carolina Panthers WR
Curtis Samuel gets one more shot to boost his value before some important upcoming decisions this offseason. The wide receiver is out of contract in 2021 and although the Carolina Panthers undoubtedly want the player to remain on the roster, there is sure to be some significant interest on the free-agent market if things get that far.
Players with Samuel’s skill set don’t grow on trees.
And the level of production he’s demonstrated as the season’s gone on is further proof of just what a special talent he is.
The former Ohio State star will be heavily involved once again in Week 17. Samuel is expected to generate his usual touches in the passing game and might even see more in the way of responsibility in the backfield with Christian McCaffrey and Mike Davis both missing the season finale.
Samuel needs just 70 yards to achieve the 1,000-yard all-purpose milestone, which is already the highest of his young career by a considerable margin.
The Panthers are in a fight to keep the player, of that there is little doubt. But with so many needs to fill elsewhere, they would be wise not to be held to ransom in this scenario.