3 winners and 3 losers from the Carolina Panthers 2021 offseason
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB
Once it was evident the New York Jets were moving on from Sam Darnold, landing in the right sort of environment with another instant chance to start was absolutely crucial for the quarterback.
In this regard, the Carolina Panthers were the perfect landing spot.
Darnold now enters a crucial 2021 season with a plethora of weapons to call upon in the passing game. Having the league’s best dual-threat running back in Christian McCaffrey to call upon is something else that cannot be ignored.
Not only this, but Darnold is now working alongside one of the brightest young offensive coaches in Joe Brady, who’ll be a prime head coaching candidate if he can lead the former first-round pick on a successful road to redemption in the coming months.
It’s been evident that Darnold is relishing this chance. He imposed himself quickly within the set-up, displaying a conviction and command of the huddle that was seldom seen at MetLife Stadium.
This will obviously count for nothing if Darnold goes through the same complications when it matters most. There is also a hugely concerning offensive line in front of him to consider.
Should the USC product fail in this type of situation, then Darnold can kiss his chances of ever starting in the league outright again goodbye. Confidence is key, so having a coaching staff that believes fully in his abilities could make all the difference.