5 Panthers players who could get slapped with the bust label in 2021
By Dean Jones
Cam Erving – Carolina Panthers OT
- 1st round pick – 2016
Much like the situation with Pat Elflein, one might argue that Cam Erving is already a bust considering what was expected of the offensive tackle coming out of college.
His production at Florida State more than warranted a first-round grade, with the Cleveland Browns selecting Erving at No. 16 overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. Things haven’t exactly gone according to plan since and it’s evident that being taken this high came with expectations the player might not ever reach.
Erving does have a Super Bowl ring to his name from his 2019 season with the Kansas City Chiefs. But his time protecting the edge has left a lot to be desired and if the Carolina Panthers are planning to utilize him as a left tackle next season, it’s going to come with some big-time ramifications.
And not in a good way.
At least from watching Erving through his career to date, he does appear to be more comfortable on the interior. This is an avenue the Panthers could possibly go down if he fails to produce in the preseason, although it still begs the question surrounding just who is good enough to perform at left tackle.
It will take a drastic turnaround in fortunes for Erving to go down as anything but a bust at this stage. Disappointing in Carolina would confirm it.