4 best and worst-case scenarios for Panthers QB Sam Darnold in 2021
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold shines behind quality OL
One of the best ways Sam Darnold can succeed with the Carolina Panthers next season is if his offensive line lives up to their end of the bargain. Pass blocking was a real concern last time out beside the standout performances of right tackle Taylor Moton, who is back with the team after the organization placed him under the franchise tag as they try and work out a long-term deal.
Matt Paradis is slotted in as the starting center. But who fills in the other roles is still to be decided.
Brady Christensen is the leading candidate to take over from Pro Bowler Russell Okung at left tackle after the Panthers moved up in the third round to acquire the former BYU standout. John Miller was brought back and could start once again at right guard, with the likes of Dennis Daley, Pat Elflein, Cam Erving, and sixth-rounder Deonte Brown vying for the job at left guard.
If things continue to regress in this area, then it will be nothing sort of a disaster for Darnold. The quarterback is probably low on confidence following his time with the Jets and if he goes through some early jitters, things might turn ugly.
However, if the Panthers get themselves a strong foundation and allow Darnold more of a chance to go through his progressions than he ever had in New York, then it would be a huge surprise to see him fall flat on his face in new surroundings.