5 Carolina Panthers players who quietly had great seasons in 2021
By Dean Jones
Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers S
Expectations were through the roof for Jeremy Chinn following a phenomenal first season with the Carolina Panthers that was unfortunate not to end with NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. The former second-round pick was an absolute revelation as an outside linebacker and there was intrigue due to Phil Snow moving him back to his preferred position of safety in 2021.
Chinn was once again an explosive presence on the backend despite no true partner to rely upon thanks to yet more injury problems for Juston Burris. However, he did struggle at times in coverage and something the Panthers will no doubt consider when they explore just what to do with the Southern Ilinois product in 2022.
This was another step in the right direction for Chinn, who put together yet another 100-tackle campaign and continued to emerge as a leader within the locker room with a highly encouraging 70.6 grade from Pro Football Focus to show for his efforts.
Much like the situation with Derrick Brown, it’s unlikely we’ve seen the best of Chinn just yet. Although it might be beneficial for the Panthers to slot him back onto the second level where he is more influential.
If Jermaine Carter leaves and Haason Reddick is brought back, a linebacker trio of Chinn, Reddick, with Shaq Thompson on the interior is a mouth-watering prospect.