5 Panthers players that must perform for a surprise 2021 playoff berth
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB
Everything rests on Sam Darnold‘s shoulders next season.
It’s just that simple.
The Carolina Panthers placed an incredible amount of faith in their new quarterback this offseason, acquiring him via trade from the New York Jets despite a less than stellar start to his professional career.
Darnold is getting the benefit of the doubt, mostly due to his previous environment and the fact he’s still young enough to turn things around.
But this needs to happen quickly.
The former USC star needs to make a solid early impression in a competitive setting. Fitting in well during OTAs and training camp is one thing, but that will count for nothing if the same problems Darnold experienced on the Jets resurface in a different environment.
This is a great situation for Darnold to be in. If the offensive line provides the signal-caller with enough time to make the right choices, then a big upturn in his fortunes is a real possibility.
Decision-making where Darnold is concerned has to progress. There will be no more excuses.
All the Panthers need from Darnold is to be efficient with the football, move the chains quickly, and come through in close games down the stretch. There is just no telling what Carolina is capable of if their man under center ticks these boxes.