The subject of trade rumors this offseason, Curtis Samuel generated interest around the draft. Teams consistently contacted the Panthers about their contract-year wideout, but he remains in Carolina.
Despite the Panthers signing ex-Matt Rhule Temple receiver Robby Anderson and rostering Christian McCaffrey and D.J. Moore, the rebuilding team plans to make room for Samuel to play an essential role in its new offense.
“Curtis is going to be critical to success,” Panthers OC Joe Brady said, via the Charlotte Observer’s Alaina Getzenberg. “I wish I could have had an opportunity to be out at practices and whatnot, and Curtis is the one that I can’t wait to see him do what he does on the field. Curtis is a playmaker. He fits the mold of what we’re looking for in this type of offense, a guy that you can utilize all around the field and get the ball in the hands and good things happen.
“I think you saw stuff last year that shows that he can be a big-play wide receiver, down the field. We’re getting the ball in space, and I’m excited for him to take the next leap.”
Samuel sticking in Carolina for the 2020 season would give the Panthers an interesting array of weaponry. The former second-round pick established career-high numbers in catches (54), receiving yards (627) and touchdowns (six) last season. However, the Panthers added both Seth Roberts and ex-Saint Keith Kirkwood this offseason, forming a crowded receiving corps.
The Panthers have moved on from several cornerstone players this offseason, so a Samuel deal should not be ruled out for a team not expected to be a contender this season. But for now the Panthers are planning to have him in the fold as a flashy fourth option.
Panthers actually might be have a decent shot of competing if Bridgewater goes off. A lot of speed on that team..
Haven’t you figured it out by now? New HC’s and GM’s aren’t interested in competing. They’re interested in their guaranteed contracts.
This guy will be flipped for a 4th or 5th pick. with the statement ‘next year…..’
I sort of agree with you. I get tired of watching coaches take a year or two to get ‘their guys’- like wtf? You’re a coach, you are supposed to teach guys how to play. What good are you if we have to wait for you to get players that already know the systems and techniques you prefer?
Two things holding this team back: offensive line and secondary. Matt Paradis and Russell Okung are the only competent blockers, and Okung is constantly hurt. Meanwhile, Eli Apple is projected to start at outside cornerback. That’s all you need to know
Like the panthers offence. They have Bridgewater Samuel Moore Anderson and MCaffery. They just spent the whole draft of improving the defence.
I wouldn’t be surprised if this team is actually better than those currently tanking and goes 5-11 or 6-10