4 Carolina Panthers players who could take a step back in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players could take a step back in terms of production during the 2021 season?
There is a lot riding on the 2021 season for the Carolina Panthers. Last year was one of discovery for head coach Matt Rhule and his inexperienced coaching staff, who relied on young players that obviously went through some growing pains after wholesale changes to the roster during the offseason.
The Panthers were perhaps more competitive than many expected, especially considering they were without their star running back Christian McCaffrey for 13 games due to various injury problems.
Their lack of know-how late in games provided to be their undoing on no fewer than eight occasions. Providing the necessary adjustments are made this summer, there are high hopes for progression when competitive action gets underway.
Looking at Carolina’s schedule, there is a real opportunity for them to hit the ground running if everything clicks into place right away.
How far the Panthers go will ultimately come down to whether Sam Darnold makes the most out of better surroundings following his trade from the New York Jets, with the front office set to carry the can if he is the sole reason this team isn’t successful in 2021.
High stakes, obviously. But this is a talented young group who should all come on with further refinement this summer and a more structured preparation program benefitting every team across the league.
However, some might be candidates for regression. Here are four Panthers players who might take a step back in production next season.