Panthers balance sheet: Offense in the black after Baker Mayfield trade
By Dean Jones
Will Carolina Panthers’ overreliance on D.J. Moore continue in 2022?
Not every wide receiver is cut out to produce the goods with inconsistent quarterback play. This proved to be the case last season for the Carolina Panthers for everyone apart from D.J. Moore.
The former first-round pick was once again a top performer for the Panthers in 2021, going over 1,000 receiving yards for the third consecutive campaign. Moore was the one shining light within the wideout room after Robbie Anderson regressed and Terrace Marshall Jr. was a non-factor despite coming to Carolina with a big reputation out of LSU.
Much like the situation with Christian McCaffrey, the Panthers would prefer it if their overreliance on Moore didn’t continue. He’ll still be the focal point, obviously, but others must step up and make their presence felt more effectively.
Again, the presence of Ben McAdoo will be crucial in all this. Having Baker Mayfield under is also something the Panthers have going for them ahead of a critical 2022 season for many within the franchise.
Moore is still the team’s best wide receiver by a considerable margin and the Panthers rightfully gave the Maryland production a lucrative extension this offseason. If he hits it off with Mayfield right away, then he could be set for yet more career-highs across the board.