4 Carolina Panthers players who must rebound in 2021
By Dean Jones
Keith Kirkwood – Carolina Panthers WR
Despite playing a minimal role in 2020 due to injury, the Carolina Panthers appear to be giving Keith Kirkwood another chance to establish himself ahead of the new campaign. The wide receiver was given a one-year extension when many thought he’d be heading for the exit and it’s vital the former New Orleans Saint doesn’t let this opportunity pass him by.
Kirkwood was familiar with Joe Brady’s scheme from their time together in New Orleans. But a series of frustrating injuries restricted the wideout to just one game and 35 snaps.
This was immensely disappointing for the player and the Panthers. But with Curtis Samuel likely to leave in free agency after a career year, Kirkwood could get another shot at becoming a valuable member of a passing attack that might also be working with someone other than Teddy Bridgewater under center.
One thing is for sure, Kirkwood won’t have things all his own way. Carolina also extended Brandon Zylstra and will no doubt bring in additional reinforcements to the organization this offseason.
The impending return of undrafted free-agent Omar Bayless is another exciting element that shouldn’t be overlooked. So the former Hawaii and Temple star will need to produce the goods on the field and prove his dependability in terms of health.
If Kirkwood can do this, then a bounce-back campaign is not entirely out of the question.