10 most important Panthers players to the team’s chances in 2021

D.J. Moore – Carolina Panthers WR

Expectations could not be much higher for D.J. Moore in 2021. The wide receiver is coming off his second-straight 1,000-yard season, which is a pretty remarkable achievement when one considers the lack of consistent quarterback play since he entered the league back in 2018.

Moore needs to get into the end-zone frequently to enter the truly elite category. Other statistical numbers are where they need to be, but touchdowns and points win games.

This is something Moore is capable of. His route-running continues to develop and with Christian McCaffrey returning to the fold, there could be some additional space to work throughout the upcoming season.

Taylor Moton – Carolina Panthers OT

Although other areas of the offensive line remain a concern, the Panthers can relax safe in the knowledge they have one of the best right tackles in the business tied down long-term.

Taylor Moton is an ultra-consistent presence blocking from the edge and was rewarded handsomely this offseason. Nothing more than the former second-round pick deserved.

Moton got a ton of reps at left tackle during training camp. So it will be interesting to see if Carolina contemplates shifting the Western Michigan product if things don’t start well on the blindside.