5 big plans most likely to go wrong for the Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers solved their LB troubles
Not having Luke Kuechly manning the second level was a body blow for the Carolina Panthers in 2020. Although few would argue his reasons for walking away after a sensational eight-year career with the organization weren’t valid.
This is a problem area that the Panthers hoped they’ve solved this offseason. Denzel Perryman joined in free agency from the Los Angeles Chargers and with Jermaine Carter set to move back to an outside linebacker, this area appears a lot more solid on paper.
However, things don’t always work out as expected.
Perryman’s had his struggles staying healthy throughout his career. Down in no small part to his violent approach to every down.
There is also the small matter of Shaq Thompson to consider. The former first-round pick missed Kuechly putting him in the right spot last season and although he went over 100 tackles for the second-straight campaign, he’ll need to step up his game further when competitive action begins.
Carter did shine when introduced into the starting lineup, but this will be the first time he’ll be tasked with starting a full season.
If the worst happens to the linebacker room, then there isn’t much in the way of quality depth behind them. So the stakes could not be much higher.