5 bold training camp predictions for the Carolina Panthers in 2021

Sam Darnold will put up impressive preseason numbers

All eyes will be on Sam Darnold throughout training camp and the preseason. The quarterback is looking to prove he was a product of inept coaching on the New York Jets and the Carolina Panthers are counting on his talent shining through with more weapons around him.

Darnold hasn’t done anything to suggest he was worthy of being taken No. 3 overall back in 2018. His hesitancy and decision-making even from a clean pocket have been notable over his three years at MetLife Stadium, so it’ll take a pretty drastic turnaround to alter current perceptions.

Getting Darnold as many reps as possible in preseason contests without jeopardizing his health will be crucial. The more chemistry he can develop with his new teammates, the better his chances of success will be.

This is also a scenario where mistakes can be made without much in the way of repercussions. Darnold needs to rid himself of some bad habits on the field – and quickly – in order to hit the ground running when the real action starts and there is no better time to do this than in preseason fixtures.

Darnold should approach this fresh start with confidence and forget everything that’s happened before. If he can do this, then expect to see the signal-caller achieve some impressive numbers in the preseason.