4 Carolina Panthers players who could win individual awards in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players could be candidates to pick up individual awards in 2021?
There is a lot on the line for the Carolina Panthers in 2021. The organization has put its faith in quarterback Sam Darnold doing a much better job of coming through in critical situations than they ever saw from Teddy Bridgewater last season, with failure simply not an option for the player following his trade from the New York Jets.
There is enough talent on the roster to make a bigger impression in the second year of Matt Rhule’s stint as head coach. Much will depend on Darnold, obviously. But the Panthers did a tremendous job throughout the offseason addressing problem areas with limited funds in free agency and plenty of activity during the 2021 NFL Draft.
Some more talented players in Carolina might also have one eye on some individual accolades next time around. These are normally associated with those on winning teams, but if the Panthers progress and secure a surprise playoff berth, it isn’t out of the question by any stretch.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at four Panthers players who might win awards in 2021.
Player No. 1
Terrace Marshall Jr. – Carolina Panthers WR
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
The Panthers got a potential steal when Terrace Marshall Jr. fell into their laps at No. 59 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. They altered their strategy after receiving a call that the New Orleans Saints were planning to take the former LSU standout with the very next selection, deciding that gifting him to an NFC South rival was not the smart way to go.
It’s easy to see why. Marshall has all the intangibles needed to become a real star at the next level and providing there are no more complications from a health standpoint, the Panthers have a real player on their hands.
Much will depend on how Marshall is utilized in the passing game during his first season in Carolina. But one only has to look at the impact made by his former teammate Justin Jefferson with the Minnesota Vikings last time out to see what impression someone from the college ranks can make.
Quarterbacks tend to get the glory where NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is concerned. However, Marshall would have a shot if he hits the ground running.