3 realistic targets for the Carolina Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
A winning record
The Carolina Panthers can definitely look to attain a winning record in 2021 if things go their way. This would be the biggest indicator yet that things are trending in the right direction under Matt Rhule and the new regime, which would also make them an attractive destination for free agents next year with more in the way of financial resources at their disposal.
Much will depend on how quarterback Sam Darnold gets on. The Panthers placed a significant amount of faith in the former No. 3 overall selection by resisting the temptation to take Justin Fields in the draft, so the USC product needs to repay this with improved production on the field and getting it done when the game’s on the line.
If Teddy Bridgewater had done this last season, Carolina could have easily achieved a winning record and a playoff spot in the first year with Rhule’s leading the charge. Instead, the Panthers lost eight games by one score and the signal-caller was shipped to the Denver Broncos for nothing more than a sixth-round pick in return.
This is a roster that looks right on the cusp of something special. The offensive line also needs to hold up in the face of what’s going to be some concerted pressure throughout the campaign. But if they can, then it will do their chances the world of good.
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Whether a winning record will be enough to make the postseason remains to be seen. However, this might be enough to keep the Panthers on the right track.