5 sneaky threats for the Carolina Panthers to worry about vs. NY Jets
By Dean Jones
Michael Carter – RB
Rookie running back Michael Carter is no stranger to fans of the Carolina Panthers. The outstanding talent played his college football at North Carolina, forming a devastating tandem with Javonte Williams – who is now on the Denver Broncos.
Carter enjoyed his finest season to date with the Tar Heels in 2020, gaining 1,245 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground. This also came with an outstanding yards-per-carry average of 8.0.
In 514 carries over his four-year stint at North Carolina, Carter secured 3,404 rushing yards, 22 touchdowns, and a 6.6 yards-per-carry average.
Not only this, but Carter hauled in 82 receptions for 656 receiving yards and six scores to further heighten his overall influence.
The Jets took Carter in the fourth round at No. 104 overall, which might be a steal when it’s all said and done. He’ll probably split reps with Tevin Coleman early on, but expect him to get plenty of carries against the Panthers as Robert Saleh looks to take the heat off Zach Wilson in his competitive debut.
Carolina’s run defense improved gradually in 2020, although some big strides need to be made this time around.
Acquiring DaQuan Jones in free agency should help, but the Panthers should still take Carter’s threat seriously whenever he’s lined up in the backfield.