4 Carolina Panthers players leading a culture shift in 2021
By Dean Jones
D.J. Moore – Carolina Panthers WR
The Carolina Panthers have an abundance of young talent on their roster. Established veterans with proven production are few and far between after wholesale changes over the last two years, meaning there will be more responsibility on D.J. Moore’s shoulders than most heading into the 2021 season.
Moore is one of the best young wide receivers in the business. His production since entering the league has been extremely pleasing and far better than anybody anticipated considering the lack of stable quarterback play in 2019 and 2020.
If Sam Darnold can make his presence felt following his trade from the New York Jets and develops improved chemistry with Moore, the sky is the limit.
The Panthers will be looking to the former Maryland standout to produce on the field and become a leader off it. There is nothing to suggest he isn’t capable of this and a change in jersey numbers is another intriguing psychological element that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Things look promising for Moore ahead of the new campaign. Carolina picked up his fifth-year option as expected and another season of exceptional numbers will see a bumper new deal coming his way sooner rather than later.
Once considered a puppy compared to other leading figures on the roster, Moore is now tasked with leading this potential culture shift Matt Rhule is trying to implement.