4 things that must change for the Carolina Panthers in 2021

Run defense

The Carolina Panthers did improve somewhat in run defense in 2020.

But the bar wasn’t exactly high following a dismal 2019 campaign.

Carolina gave up 121 yards per game on the ground last season, which was ranked No. 18 across the league. Not the worst by any stretch of the imagination, so if things can take another step forward with more talent on the roster in 2021, the sky is the limit for this group.

The addition of DaQuan Jones will assist in this area tremendously. The free-agent signing played a leading role for the Tennessee Titans over their playoff appearances over the last two years and he appears to complement the skills Derrick Brown brings to the table.

Brown struggled at times in run support as s rookie, although his ability to generate pressure in opposing backfields despite being one of the most double-teamed defensive tackles in the entire NFL was incredibly pleasing.

Brian Burns and Haason Reddick now form what could be a prolific duo coming off the edge, with the addition of inside linebacker Denzel Perryman from the Los Angeles Chargers another potential difference-maker that shouldn’t be overlooked.

If everything clicks into place, Carolina’s defense should become a force to be reckoned with.