4 extremely underrated Panthers players entering 2022 training camp

Brandon Zylstra – Carolina Panthers WR

Reliability was scarce in the wide receiver room in 2021. D.J. Moore’s production remained borderline elite, but many others struggled to make the necessary impact with less than stellar distribution from quarterback Sam Darnold throughout the campaign.

The Carolina Panthers did get some eye-catching production from Brandon Zylstra despite targets coming at a premium for the former CFL standout. Something that could indicate a bigger role within Ben McAdoo’s scheme if he can build on this positive momentum.

Zylstra is never going to put up Moore’s numbers, obviously. But his smooth route-running and outstanding ball skills could see him emerge as a dependable target on short-to-intermediate routes in key situations.

Impressing new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo is Zylstra’s primary objective in training camp. He’ll also need to outperform the likes of Terrace Marshall Jr., Rashard Higgins, and Shi Smith in pursuit of additional playing time on offense.

One suspects that Zylstra will make the 53-man roster thanks to his special teams play. However, the wideout should have far greater ambitions after attaining a 72 percent catch success rate in 2021.

This all starts in camp for Zylstra. And the rewards of a top showing in Spartanburg are obvious.