Panthers depth chart focus: High stakes for WR group in 2022
By Dean Jones
There is plenty at stake within the wide receiver room for the Carolina Panthers in 2022, but can the group respond to adversity this time around?
It was a troubling season overall for the wide receiver room in 2021. Individual errors and a lack of chemistry with quarterback Sam Darnold made things difficult for everyone outside of D.J. Moore, who once again proved that almost no consistency under center doesn’t prevent him from putting up high-quality numbers.
The Panthers have kept faith with their current options this offseason. Perhaps in the hope that each can make the necessary improvements in the scheme implemented by new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo.
Darnold is still around, which obviously complicates matters. But the Panthers have not entirely shut the door on another trade for Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo depending on how things play out in the coming weeks.
With this in mind, we took a deep dive into Carolina’s wide receivers and what they could bring in our latest 2022 depth chart focus.
Carolina Panthers depth chart focus: The new WR arrival
Rashard Higgins – Carolina Panthers WR
The Carolina Panthers did add one wideout that has the potential to make a difference when Rashard Higgins joined in free agency from the Cleveland Browns. While he didn’t make the big leap many anticipated in 2021, he is an assured pass-catching presence that could help on the rotation providing there is a smooth transition in training camp.
Higgins is a good route-runner that can stretch the field when needed. The former Colorado State standout is also elusive enough to create yards after the catch – a strong component in Ben McAdoo’s scheme.
At the very worst, Higgins will increase competition for targets. But this could be a nice pickup at a minimal cost when it’s all said and done.