What each Carolina Panthers rookie will struggle with during 2021
By Dean Jones
Tommy Tremble – Carolina Panthers TE
- Creating separation in the passing game.
Tommy Tremble is going to be a big hit on the Carolina Panthers. His exceptional blocking ability was there for all to see at Notre Dame and if he brings this to the pro ranks from the outset, it could make all the difference for a team that’s struggled in pass protection more often than not.
If Tremble can refine his pass-catching over time, he’ll be the complete package. Just how much the Panthers will put on his shoulders in this regard is uncertain, with the player set to find life more difficult creating separation against defenders that’ll see him coming.
In this regard, Tremble is a work in progress. Playing to his strengths early on while letting the rookie develop other areas of his game will be the best thing in the long run.
Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers RB
- Generating yards after contact.
Another exciting addition to the roster is Chuba Hubbard, who should serve as Christian McCaffrey’s primary backup unless something drastic happens at training camp. Although there is a lot to like about his skill set, there is one area, in particular, the Oklahoma State product needs to improve.
Hubbard tends to go down after the first contact, which restricts his production to a certain extent. This needs to get better in the NFL, although it’s probably going to be more difficult given how athletic and physical defenders are these days.
McCaffrey will still be the focal point on offense for as long as he is healthy. But the Panthers are expecting Hubbard to take the pressure off at certain stages without a loss in momentum.