6 projections for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 free agency
By Dean Jones
Curtis Samuel joins the Giants
- three years, $25 million ($8.33M APY): $15 million total guaranteed, $10 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Curtis Samuel made himself some serious money this season. The Carolina Panthers got some impressive production from the do-it-all wide receiver thanks to a series of outstanding displays. But this makes the task of keeping the player around long-term even more difficult.
This would have been easier if the cap was at the level expected pre-COVID.
However, this is simply not the case.
Samuel went over 1,000 yards from scrimmage for the first time in his short career, which won’t have gone unnoticed by other teams across the league looking for a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game all over the field.
The former Ohio State standout is in a strong position and will command some eye-catching money if a bidding war emerges for his services. Samuel is ranked No. 43 on Pro Football Focus’ top free-agent list and they predict he’ll become the second big name to leave Carolina in favor of the New York Giants in consecutive years.
Cornerback James Bradberry made the same move in 2020 free agency and was exceptional during his debut campaign at MetLife Stadium. Adding someone like Samuel would further strengthen an offense that should also be getting star running back Saquon Barkley back fit next time around.