5 unheralded Panthers players who could make an impact in 2021
By Dean Jones
Joseph Charlton – Carolina Panthers P
Without getting a significant amount of headlines, Joseph Charlton put together an impressive rookie season for the Carolina Panthers in 2020. The punter earned the starting job and gave a tremendous account of himself, especially considering there wasn’t a chance for the player to gain initial experience on the field thanks to a canceled preseason.
Charlton’s production was so good, the Panthers opted to release proven veteran Michael Palardy, who missed the entire year due to injury and subsequently signed for the Miami Dolphins in free agency.
The former South Carolina prospect managed to secure a 46.3 yards-per-punt average, with Charlton’s longest attempt standing at 67 yards.
This was far better than even the most optimistic projections surrounding Charlton. Something that can give the player plenty of reasons to be encouraged ahead of an important second campaign.
Charlton has two years remaining on his deal. If he can provide Carolina with even more in the way of consistency next time around, it might be enough to convince the organization he is the man to solidify the position long-term.
The punter contribution often gets overlooked, but Charlton has the chance to give his defensive teammates every chance of success with field position they can capitalize on.