5 big plans most likely to go wrong for the Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
Cam Erving is a starting LT
Russell Okung’s time with the Carolina Panthers was tainted by injury problems and the Pro Bowler wasn’t brought back for another go-around. The revolving door at left tackle continues and there appears to be some real doubt as to just who is going to fill the role in 2021.
One thing is for sure, Cam Erving seems pretty confident he is the man for the job. Even though his career production dictates otherwise.
Much was expected of Erving when the Cleveland Browns selected him in the first round back in 2015. He lasted just two seasons before being released, landing on his feet with the Kansas City Chiefs on his way to a Super Bowl ring.
The lineman spent last season with the Dallas Cowboys and didn’t do enough to earn a longer-term stay. Simply put, things would need to turn around pretty drastically for Erving to make a success at being Carolina’s blindside protector in 2021.
This is a position that the Panthers have ignored for too long. If Sam Darnold shows enough to suggest he might be worth another shot in 2022, then it should be their top priority next offseason.
Erving has his work cut out, to put it mildly. But the Panthers obviously saw something in the player to give him a two-year, $10 million deal with $8 million guaranteed.