5 Panthers players who’ll benefit from a normal offseason
By Dean Jones
Christian Miller – Carolina Panthers OLB
It’s been a long time since Christian Miller saw the football field for any meaningful action. The outside linebacker opted out of the 2020 campaign due to COVID-19 concerns, so getting back up to speed during the preseason is absolutely essential for the former Alabama standout.
Judging by team photos from OTAs, Miller has returned in tremendous shape.
This will serve him well as the player looks to re-establish himself as a prominent member of the rotation, which is going to be a significant challenge after so long away from the gridiron.
It’s hard to really know what the Carolina Panthers have in Miller. He showed plenty of promise during his rookie campaign on his way to two sacks, but taking a year out might have done more harm than good despite being well within his right to put personal health before anything else.
Throwing Miller in at the deep end during the preseason would be a smart way to go.
There aren’t many people left who were around when Carolina selected him in the fourth round, so he’ll have to impress a brand-new coaching staff in pursuit of playing time.
If Miller’s been working hard away from the team and earns the right to gain notable reps, it will be like another new signing for the Panthers and one that can help a defense that could achieve great things in 2021.