5 under-the-radar Panthers players that must perform vs. Washington
By Dean Jones
Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers S
Considering the talent Jeremy Chinn has at his disposal, his production in 2021 has been somewhat overlooked given how well others on the defense are lighting it up.
However, few would deny he is a key cog for the Carolina Panthers and something that must continue in Week 11 against the Washington Football Team.
For all the problems on defense this season, Washington’s weapons in the passing game should be treated with respect. The likes of Terry McLaurin and former Panthers star Curtis Samuel can hurt you if afforded enough space, so Chinn needs to be alert from the word go.
Chinn has been a revelation since the Panthers traded up in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Southern Illinois. He might not be producing the same highlight-reel plays we witnessed during his rookie season as an outside linebacker, but the player is still contributing in a big way on the backend.
The Panthers also have the option of throwing Chinn down to the line of scrimmage in obvious running downs – an area where he excels. Juston Burris returning from injury was another substantial boost for Phil Snow’s unit last weekend, which will also allow more freedom to his safety partner.
Chinn has turned out in almost every defensive snap this season – 99 percent to be precise. He is a model of consistency and the Panthers need him at the top of his game this weekend.