We all know the Panthers are supposed to have one of the best defensive front sevens in the NFL this year. They’ve also reloaded and filled some holes along the offensive line and in the backfield.
One position group that’s not getting as much attention as it should is wide receiver. There have been exceptions like Steve Smith, but Carolina has never really had a scary group of receivers during Cam Newton’s career. This could be the year that finally changes. Jarius Wright told reporters after Friday’s training camp practice that this WR group has a chance to be great.
What sets this bunch of receivers apart from years past is the wide range of their talents.
Wright is the best possession receiver of the bunch and should continue to serve as an effective security blanket for Newton on third downs. Chris Hogan led all receivers in average yards of separation last season and will also help move the chains. Torrey Smith was just starting to get into a rhythm with Newton before he got injured last season and still has plenty left in the tank at 30 years old.
The rock stars are the two young receivers at the top of the depth chart, though: D.J. Moore and Curtis Samuel.
It remains to be seen where they’ll line up and how offensive coordinator Norv Turner will use them, but they’re both breakout candidates who can raise the level of the passing game to heights it hasn’t seen under Ron Rivera.
