5 big fears for Carolina Panthers fans during 2021 season

(Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports) Sam Darnold and Matt Rhule
(Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports) Sam Darnold and Matt Rhule /
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(Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports) Juston Burris /

Carolina Panthers safety stability

Although there is plenty of excitement around the Carolina Panthers moving Jeremy Chinn back to his preferred position of safety, the inconsistent production of Juston Burris in 2020 means he might become a weak link if strides aren’t made this offseason.

Burris made an encouraging start to life in Carolina after signing in free agency from the Cleveland Browns. A rib injury midway through the campaign seemed to throw him off and he wasn’t the same player upon returning.

The Panthers are giving him the benefit of the doubt in the final year of his deal. If Burris doesn’t make the most of having a dynamic playmaker like Chinn alongside him, then expect opposing passing attacks to target his area of the field heavily.

What’s perhaps more concerning is the lack of depth behind the starting duo. Myles Hartsfield, Sam Franklin, and Kenny Robinson seem like the best options, which doesn’t exactly scream dependability given their inexperience.

Fortunately, the Panthers have more than $24 million in salary-cap space remaining, according to Over the Cap. This leaves them with plenty of spare cash to bring in a proven veteran should they wish.

And they would be wise to do just that.