4 ways Carolina Panthers can improve on defense in 2021
By Dean Jones
Move Jeremy Chinn to safety?
To say Jeremy Chinn exceeded expectations during his rookie year would be something of an understatement. The Carolina Panthers took a big risk by moving back into the second round to select the former Southern Illinois prospect at No. 64 overall and it did not take long to realize they made an exceptional move.
Chinn was a revelation from the moment he stepped onto the field. He electrified in almost every game despite having little experience playing at outside linebacker before he got to the next level and was unfortunate not to come away with NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in the process.
What comes next for Chinn is uncertain.
Carolina released Tre Boston after an underwhelming season. So the prospect of moving their stud defensive playmaker back to his preferred position of safety is a realistic one.
The Panthers would be wise not to tie down Chinn too much considering how dynamic he is. The player possesses a rare ability to make things happen at the drop of a hat and if putting him on the backend restricted him somewhat, it’s a move they might end up reversing.
Wherever Chinn lines up next season, he will be a difference-maker. But where that will actually be in 2021 is still up for debate.