5 Panthers players who could become nice surprises in 2021

Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB

Although the roster looks pretty complete if the offensive line makes strides, it’s all going to come down to whether Sam Darnold can make a better go of things in a different environment. The Carolina Panthers acquired the quarterback from the New York Jets for three draft selections and this is the big chance he’s been waiting for after three dismal seasons at MetLife Stadium.

Darnold is getting a pass thanks in no small part to the Jets’ lack of talent and the less than stellar coaching of Adam Gase. To say that won’t be the case this time around would be the biggest of understatements.

Carolina has an embarrassment of riches in the passing game and an All-Pro running back in Christian McCaffrey for Darnold to lean on. Couple this with a progressive offensive coordinator in Joe Brady and a head coach that clearly believes in the former USC star, and it’s not hard to see why the signal-caller has everything going for him.

If Darnold gets enough time to go through his progressions, then it’s hard to envisage a situation where the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 will fail unless he simply does not have the necessary talent to get the job done.

Darnold failing to meet expectations will have some major ramifications, especially if Justin Fields shows out with the Chicago Bears. Rhule has bet big in the player rejuvenating his career in Carolina and this vote of confidence could be a springboard to bigger and better things.