6 Panthers players entering 2021 season with genuine superstar potential
By Dean Jones
Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers S
Christian McCaffrey might be the face of the Carolina Panthers. But the level of impact Jeremy Chinn has made both on and off the field in a short space of time has been nothing short of exceptional.
The Panthers made a bold move back into the second round to acquire the talented Southern Illinois product. As it turned out, this was one of the best recent decisions in team memory.
Chinn was absolutely electrifying as a rookie, going over 100 tackles and proving no occasion was too big despite his lack of previous experience playing as an outside linebacker. He was unfortunate not to win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, but that shouldn’t detract from what an outstanding first season in the pros it was.
Carolina is now switching Chinn back to his preferred position alongside Juston Burris at safety. Defensive coordinator Phil Snow is expected to keep moving the do-it-all player around to maximize his production, so providing there are no problems on the health front, a superstar-type season could be in his immediate future.
Not only this, but Chinn is also becoming a leading force within the community for charities and community projects. Another strong indicator of what a special guy he is.
The sky is the limit for Chinn, it’s just that simple. Although trading up was seen as a gamble at the time, it’s already paid off for the Panthers.