5 most overhyped Carolina Panthers from the 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers ended up being vastly overhyped following a disappointing 2021 season that saw little progress made?
The Carolina Panthers flattered to deceive during the 2021 season. All the big talk of postseason football and significant progression in Year 2 of Matt Rhule’s tenure folded like a cheap suit as the team ended up with five wins for a third-straight campaign and little in the way of genuine progress.
There are now major concerns from top to bottom across the Panthers. That includes team owner David Tepper’s judgment, who has failed to communicate with fans or the media after a disastrous season in the grand scheme of things.
What comes next is unclear. But there are plenty on the team, in the front office, and on the coaching staff who are fighting for their respective reputations when competitive action resumes for Carolina in 2022.
With this in mind, here are the five most overhyped Panthers from the 2021 season.
Panther No. 1
Joe Brady – Former Carolina Panthers OC
There was plenty of hype surrounding Joe Brady following his switch from the college ranks before the 2020 campaign. Although things didn’t quite go according to plan in his first season, hopes were high that the offensive coordinator could make significant strides with another year of experience under his belt.
Brady wasn’t exactly helped by an anemic offensive line and almost no consistent quarterback production. But his scheme was basic, underwhelming, and something opposing defenses figured out in no time at all.
The Carolina Panthers fired Brady midway through the bye, ending any hopes the young mind had of attaining a head coaching position this offseason. He remains out of work, so it will be interesting to see what happens next.