Carolina Panthers have D.J. Moore
It was not a season to remember for most pass-catchers on the Carolina Panthers in 2021. Individual mistakes and poor quarterback performance meant things were lackluster at best, but there was one shining light that could be relied upon no matter what once again.
For all the team’s complications, D.J. Moore remained a model of consistency. The former first-round pick went over 1,000 yards receiving for a third straight year, which is a remarkable achievement when one considers he’s had no consistent presence under center during this span.
The Panthers recognized Moore’s importance by getting a lucrative contract extension sorted out this offseason ahead of the final year of his rookie deal. Based on what other wideouts were paid shortly after, this could represent a huge bargain for Carolina when it’s all said and done.
Players like Robby Anderson, Terrace Marshall Jr., Rashard Higgins, and tight end Ian Thomas need to step up their influence next season. But the Panthers can relax safe in the knowledge that Moore will always be a valued contributor no matter the standard of quarterback play.
Moore seems like a tremendous scheme fit for new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo, who relies heavily on playmakers generating yards after the catch. Something that could allow the Maryland product to go from underrated to the truly elite category in 2022.