4 problems Panthers QB Sam Darnold must overcome in 2021
By Dean Jones
What problems must Sam Darnold overcome to make a better go of things with the Carolina Panthers during the 2021 season?
There is a lot on the line for Sam Darnold next season. The Carolina Panthers made a bold move to acquire the quarterback via trade from the New York Jets, giving him what could be his final chance to prove he can become a productive signal-caller at the next level.
The intangibles where Darnold is concerned are there. He showed flashes of brilliance on the Jets despite the relative lack of talent around him. With plenty of weapons at his disposal in Carolina, more is undoubtedly expected.
Whether he can do this or not is still up for debate.
Matt Rhule has placed plenty of faith in Darnold, but if he fails to repay this confidence it could end up being another long season and one that could end up with another losing record.
That is the glass-half-empty take on matters.
However, if this trade pays off for the Panthers, it should end up being a real steal.
Carolina gave up three picks to the Jets to make the deal, two of which they claimed back during the 2021 NFL Draft. So, in the grand scheme of things, it’s costing them a second-round selection to find out whether Darnold has what it takes.
Darnold has to take this chance and make it work. Otherwise, he can kiss his chances of earning another starting job goodbye.
With this in mind, here are four problems Darnold must overcome to thrive on the Panthers in 2021.