Carolina Panthers 53-man roster prediction after 2022 minicamp
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers wide receivers
- D.J. Moore, Robbie Anderson, Terrace Marshall Jr., Rashard Higgins, Shi Smith, Brandon Zylstra, C.J. Saunders.
It was hard not to be extremely disappointed by the wide receivers not named D.J. Moore in 2021. Not having any consistency at the quarterback position didn’t help matters, but things have to get better for most on the depth chart next season or there will be some real concerns about their future with the franchise.
The Carolina Panthers don’t have any such worries regarding Moore, who once again went over 1,000 receiving yards despite the constant uncertainty under center. Those in power paid the former first-round pick handsomely this offseason and if they finally get things right with their chosen signal-caller, the Maryland product could be the biggest beneficiary.
After plenty of speculation surrounding his future and even a tweet contemplating retirement, Robbie Anderson is back with a new number and hopefully, a renewed sense of determination to get back to the form of old. If he can’t, then this is likely to be his final season in Carolina.
The same applies to Terrace Marshall Jr. and Shi Smith to a lesser extent. Both failed to produce the goods as rookies, so the jury is still out as to whether they can carve out productive careers for themselves at the next level.
Rashard Higgins’ arrival in free agency comes with intrigue. The Panthers should also save room for Brandon Zylstra after he became one of their most dependable targets in 2021.
Given his versatility and ability to contribute on special teams, a chance is also taken on C.J. Saunders, who is well-liked by the coaching staff and offers something a little different.