3 ways Terrace Marshall Jr. can spark the Panthers offense in 2021

Terrace Marshall Jr.’s route-running

While Terrace Marshall Jr.’s size and speed are incredibly important, I wouldn’t say either are his X-factor attribute that we will see. The way he puts pressure on the defense with his route running technique will create the pedestal for big plays – something the Carolina Panthers can use to their advantage.

Marshall can run the bomb routes using his long stride and extra-wide catch radius on the go. He can also slant in the middle of the field and take a hit and keep going.

One of his trademark skills is undercutting the defense and running through gaps and then breaking away once he has the secondary off balance. Not a bad weapon for Carolina to call upon in Joe Brady’s scheme.

The X-Factor

His true X-factor is the balance of all three skills. Marshall isn’t the biggest or the fastest, but that’s not what the Panthers truly need right now.

They are after a talent that can surgically dissect and manipulate the defense into taking the bait on plays and then getting yards from it. He’s a player who knows how to reel in a defensive secondary at any given moment, which is something general manager Scott Fitterer and head coach Matt Rhule are excited about bringing into their playbook.

According to David Newton of ESPN, the Panthers were “being cautious with Marshall in rookie camp”, and Rhule said Carolina still had a first-round grade on the player despite his recent injury concerns.

"“He’s a big, fast, strong, athletic guy. His best football is ahead of him.”"

The Panthers couldn’t pass up Marshall after he fells into their laps after trading down. There is a real opportunity awaiting the player in 2021 and the sky is the limit with the skills at his disposal.