5 NY Jets players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet in Week 1
By Dean Jones
Which New York Jets players must the Carolina Panthers keep quiet in Week 1 to get their 2021 season off on the right foot?
After one of the most eventful offseasons in recent memory, the Carolina Panthers finally get down to competitive action on Sunday when they welcome the New York Jets to Bank of America Stadium.
This game comes with plenty of intriguing storylines to add a little more spice to the occasion. Most notably, just how Sam Darnold is going to get on against his former team.
Darnold was traded to the Panthers just before the 2021 NFL Draft, with the Jets choosing to go in a different direction. This is the perfect chance for the USC product to prove they not only made a mistake, but he can lead Carolina to better things in the short and long term.
Robby Anderson also goes up against his old employers for the first time. But there are plenty of threats in New York after some notable additions during the preparation period.
With this in mind, here are five Jets players the Panthers must keep quiet in order to give themselves the best possible chance of success.
Jets players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet.
Player No. 1
Mekhi Becton – OT
If the Carolina Panthers allow Mekhi Becton to control the line of scrimmage, it’s going to come with some pretty big ramifications. The left tackle is a potential stud in the making after a promising rookie campaign, with far more expected with a better head coach and upgrades across the board from a talent standpoint.
Becton gave up seven sacks and conceded seven penalties from just 641 snaps in 2020. However, his 74.4 grade from Pro Football Focus indicates the potential is there, even if the options around him left a lot to be desired last season.
This will be a stern test for the Louisville product. Carolina’s defensive front might be a force to be reckoned with this season and Becton will definitely have his hands full.