4 evolving storylines to expect at Panthers training camp in 2021
By Dean Jones
Increasing hopes for the Carolina Panthers defense
The Carolina Panthers brought in some tremendous acquisitions on the defensive side of the ball in free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft. This should leave coordinator Phil Snow with far more options in terms of his scheme that might propel the unit into a significant force if they build on the momentum generated at the end of last season.
Carolina’s defense certainly stood out during mandatory minicamp, which wasn’t exactly a surprise given the weapons across the board. How they progress when the pads go on at training camp will be equally as important, and there is a great sense of anticipation seeing them all on the field during the preseason before Week 1.
It all starts on the front end.
The defensive line has the potential to be dominant with the likes of Brian Burns, Derrick Brown and Haason Reddick set to cause havoc. The second level also looks improved thanks in no small part to Denzel Perryman joining in free agency from the Los Angeles Chargers.
A secondary that now consists of Jeremy Chinn, Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, and A.J. Bouye has plenty going for it. So watching how this group evolves at camp will give us a better indication of what to truly expect.
One thing that is guaranteed is athleticism and fireworks. If the Panthers’ defense hits the ground running, it might just give them a chance of far exceeding their offseason projections across the national media.