4 underachieving Panthers players who must step up in 2022

Robbie Anderson – Carolina Panthers WR

Big things were expected of Robbie Anderson after a standout first season with the Carolina Panthers that saw the wide receiver accumulate more than 1,000 yards for the first time. However, things regressed considerably thanks to some individual mistakes and a distinct lack of chemistry with quarterback Sam Darnold.

This was surprising given the duo had worked together previously on the New York Jets. Despite some trade rumors surrounding Anderson this spring, the Panthers kept faith with the Temple product in the hope he can return to the form of old.

Anderson is a straight-shooter that remains something of an enigma. On his day, the wideout can completely shift the course of any game, but there are now some major concerns about whether his first campaign in Carolina was a one-off.

The only person that can change this narrative is Anderson. He needs to get on the same page with new signal-caller Baker Mayfield and remain fully committed to the cause even in the face of adversity.

It’s also worth remembering that Anderson is set to count $21.71 million against Carolina’s salary cap in 2023. Unless he puts up Pro Bowl-caliber numbers, the Panthers aren’t going to keep him around with that sort of financial commitment.