4 Panthers players who could get early extensions in 2021
By Dean Jones
D.J. Moore – Carolina Panthers WR
There is little doubting the credentials of D.J. Moore at this juncture. The Carolina Panthers struck gold with their first-round selection in 2018 and his production this season despite chemistry issues with quarterback Teddy Bridgewater was of the highest standard once again.
Moore has now gone over 1,000 yards receiving two of the three years he’s been in the league. His route-running came on a significant amount in 2020 and his tandem with Robby Anderson on the opposite side of the field was among the NFL’s most prolific.
Time is on the Panthers’ side when it comes to extending Moore. They will undoubtedly exercise his fifth-year option when it’s time to do so. But as we saw with Christian McCaffrey last year, getting an early long-term commitment is not out of the realm of possibility.
This is a solid outline of faith and one that won’t cost the Panthers anything this season. However, getting a deal done with Moore not only ties down their best receiver heading into his prime but also provides the wideout with some extra security and confidence in the process.
The trick in this situation is not to overcomplicate matters.
Moore has the chance to be among the best in the business with better timing with whoever is under center in 2021 and the Maryland product is a key component in any success that comes Carolina’s way moving forward.