3 areas that Panthers WR Robby Anderson must improve in 2022
By Dean Jones
Robby Anderson must improve YAC
Before joining the Carolina Panthers, many analysts and evaluators saw Robby Anderson as a deep threat and not much else. This is the way he was utilized on the New York Jets, which gave the player an unwarranted tag thanks in no small part to blazing speed and ability to get downfield quickly.
Anderson quickly removed this preconceived notion with the Panthers, proving his worth as a smooth route-runner that could impact proceedings all over the field. Not only this, but the Temple product also managed to generate some significant yards after the catch numbers to further heighten his overall influence.
The wideout accumulated 497 yards after the catch in 2020. Anderson was unable to build on this positive momentum in 2021, which saw his YAC total plummet to just 158 yards – another career low.
This has a lot to do with the Panthers putting Anderson in the better positions. Something that offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo could accomplish given his reliance on short-to-intermediate routes and players making the most of YAC opportunities when they arise.
Anderson has already proven more than capable of this. So it’s absolutely essential that he adjusts well to McAdoo’s system and cement his status moving forward.