5 unheralded Panthers players who could make an impact in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which unheralded Carolina Panthers players could potentially make a huge impact during the 2021 season?
Everybody knows the Carolina Panthers have a handful of players that will ultimately determine their fortunes in 2021. The likes of Christian McCaffrey, Sam Darnold, and D.J. Moore will be tasked with putting up the numbers needed on offense, with Brian Burns, Derrick Brown, and Jeremy Chinn spearheading the team’s young and talented defense.
However, the hallmark of every successful NFL franchise is what contributions they receive from less-heralded members of the roster. Depth will be more important than ever during a 17-game season and if the Panthers get some surprising performances from individuals that fall into this category, the better their chances will be.
Hopes are high that Carolina can become more of a force next season. It’s been an offseason of outstanding recruitment on the face of things, but it all needs to come together when competitive action gets underway in Week 1 against the New York Jets.
With this in mind, here are five unheralded Panthers players that could make their presence felt in 2021.
Player No. 1
Mikey Daniel – Carolina Panthers FB/RB
With Alex Armah leaving in free agency to sign for the New Orleans Saints, it leaves the Panthers short of a full-back heading into the 2021 season. Third-round pick Tommy Tremble looks set to fill an H-Back role during his rookie campaign, but someone like Mikey Daniel could also assist providing he makes a big impression this offseason.
Daniel is listed as a running back. But there is also the possibility he can move over to a full-back should the opportunity arise. This also represents the best chance for the player to generate anything in the way of meaningful reps and a role on the depth chart.
The full-back position is something of a dying art in the pass-happy world of the NFL. However, considering how reliant the Panthers are on their running game, expect them to still deploy one and Daniel might just be the guy.