5 things that might go wrong for the Carolina Panthers in 2021
By Jason Huber
Sam Darnold fails to produce the goods
The biggest acquisition of the Carolina Panthers offense was Sam Darnold. He will undoubtedly be the largest question mark entering the 2021 season.
After the failed Teddy Bridgewater experiment following Cam Newton’s release in 2020, the former No. 3 overall selection by the New York Jets draft pick will hope to rejuvenate his career in Carolina.
Darnold’s fifth-year rookie option was picked up, giving him a bit longer of a leash. If he struggles, there’s no question that a hungry fan base will be ready to move on and draft a new quarterback given the skepticism surrounding their decision to bring the player on board.
During his time with the Jets, Darnold wasn’t the best decision-maker and went 13-25 in three seasons.
But wide receiver Robby Anderson, who played with Darnold in New York, said the 24-year-old quarterback already has a different ‘aura’ about him being in Charlotte.
Next. 5 departures the Carolina Panthers will miss the most in 2021. dark
Darnold will have to cut down on the interceptions, be better against pressure and prove he can be a franchise quarterback. If he struggles, it’ll be a long season for the Panthers and something that could force those in power to go back to the drawing board in the hope of finding a quarterback long-term.