5 Panthers players who have blown away early expectations in 2021
By Dean Jones
Morgan Fox – Carolina Panthers DL
There was a quiet sense of intrigue surrounding the free-agent pickup of Morgan Fox. The versatile defensive lineman performed extremely well for the Los Angeles Rams alongside Aaron Donald in 2020, although anyone half decent would make the most of being partnered with the NFL’s best player on defense.
Fox was given plenty of responsibility by the Carolina Panthers as a starter. Something the player is clearly relishing through the opening three weeks of the season.
His relentless motor and ability to impact the game on a three-down basis have given Carolina’s front seven a significant boost. Fox fits the mold of what the Panthers are trying to accomplish and defensive coordinator Phil Snow has done a remarkable job of putting him in the best position on almost every down.
The former undrafted prospect out of Colorado State-Pueblo has been a revelation. This is further reflected in Fox’s 76.9 grade from Pro Football Focus.
If Fox can keep this up for the remaining 14 games, then this could end up being the bargain of free agency. Another fine addition to a defense that has taken the league by storm through Week 3.
It’s hard to root against a guy like Fox. And the Panthers are far better off having him on the field.