5 most underrated Carolina Panthers players heading into 2021
By Dean Jones
Dan Arnold – Carolina Panthers TE
Of all the signings made by the Carolina Panthers this offseason, the acquisition of Dan Arnold is really going overlooked in the grand scheme of things.
The tight end is coming off a career season with the Arizona Cardinals in 2020 and is already familiar with offensive coordinator Joe Brady. So there is a lot to like about his chances of making some real progress in a different environment.
Carolina’s lack of production from the tight end position in 2020 was glaring. Letting Greg Olsen walk in free agency was a mistake, with Ian Thomas failing to meet the level expected from the No. 1 role.
Arnold is a player with wide receiver skills and will focus primarily on pass-catching duties. The Panthers drafted Tommy Tremble in the third round, who is an elite blocker that is deemed a work in progress catching the ball.
This combination is a significant upgrade on anything the Panthers had last season. Arnold is an athletic mismatch both across the middle and in the red zone. He should also get plenty of room to work thanks to the talent in other areas.
Carolina is hoping Arnold going under the radar continues throughout the season. However, sleeping on him is a serious mistake if he continues to develop.