5 Carolina Panthers role players on offense set to thrive in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers role players on offense could be set to thrive in 2021 in the dynamic scheme of Joe Brady?
Much of the talk has been about just how much progression the defense can make. But the Carolina Panthers also need their offensive playmakers to come to the fore and lead this team to their first winning record since 2017.
This is a unit that does have some questions – most notably surrounding quarterback Sam Darnold and the protection in front of him. However, offensive coordinator Joe Brady still has an embarrassment of riches to call upon, with the options looking stronger this time around despite a couple of departures this spring.
Everyone knows that the likes of Christian McCaffrey, Robby Anderson, and D.J. Moore will be prominent. There are also high hopes surrounding Dan Arnold’s potential to become Greg Olsen’s long-term successor at the tight end spot.
How lesser-known faces produce is also going to be a factor. Here are five Panthers role players on offense that should thrive in Brady’s scheme next season.
Player No. 1
Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers RB
It’s been a quiet start to training camp for Chuba Hubbard. The fourth-round pick is still picking up the offense and trying to find his way at the next level, so expecting miracles from the running back right away is unrealistic.
Thankfully, the Panthers don’t have any immediate need for Hubbard to take prominent reps. Christian McCaffrey’s return to health is a massive boost to everyone associated with the franchise, so if the former Oklahoma State star can progress slowly and make a difference when his name is called, that’s all Carolina is seeking initially.
Joe Brady will find the right spots for Hubbard, who produced some exceptional numbers in college. It also allows the offensive coordinator to get a little more creative within the scheme that could add a completely different dimension next season.