4 evolving storylines to expect at Panthers training camp in 2021
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold’s transition to the Carolina Panthers
This is one burning question that will linger throughout training camp and during the 2021 season for the Carolina Panthers.
Can Sam Darnold become the quarterback everybody expected when he was taken No. 3 overall by the New York Jets in 2018?
The evidence he’s given over three years under center has been underwhelming so far. Although there were plenty of excuses for the signal-caller in what was a toxic environment before the Jets finally cut their losses and went with Zach Wilson instead.
Darnold will not get such compassion from fans or the wider media if he fails to take advantage of this opportunity, which is a big one.
The Panthers are loaded with dynamic playmakers on offense for the USC product to utilize. Providing the offensive line holds out, then there are no more excuses.
Watching how Darnold evolves at training camp and during preseason reps could shape Carolina’s season. A shaky start would leave even more cause for concern heading into Week 1, where the player gets an instant chance to get one over on his old team at Bank of America Stadium.
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Darnold knows what’s at stake. Now is the time to start righting some wrongs and leaving no doubt about his credentials moving forward.