One of the most improved units around the NFL this offseason was the wide receiver corps for the Carolina Panthers, which scored two major upgrades. In the draft the team took South Carolina star Xavier Legette at the end of the first round. They also traded for former Pittsburgh Steelers third-round pick Diontae Johnson.
Together they should bring what was one of the worst receiver rooms in the league up to a respectable level and on paper they’ve done that. According to ESPN analyst Mike Clay’s projections for the 2024 season this group ranks 16th in the league, which is a big step up from last season. They’ll have to prove it on the field, but so far it sounds like things are coming together for this passing game.
According to a mailbag column by long-time Panthers beat guy Darin Gantt, second-year quarterback Bryce Young has developed a quick rapport with Johnson at practice.
“They should be able to run — by personnel and by intent. There are more receiving targets, and Diontae Johnson has developed a quick rapport with Bryce Young.
Ths should be music to the ears of Carolina fans who have endured years of underperformance at this position. Aside from D.J. Moore’s run, this group hasn’t made much noise since franchise legend Steve Smith left for Baltimore 10 years ago.
Johnson may not be an A-list name to the average NFL fan, but he does bring some real value to this offense. At Pittsburgh he proved he’s one of the game’s best separators and has produced consistently. With the exception of a fluke 2022 season Johnson has posted at least five touchdown catches and 680 yards a year since he was drafted.
— Enjoy more free Panthers coverage with Carolina Panthers on SI —Â
Panthers add former Broncos safety via waivers
Cam Newton tells embarrassing story on his podcast
The New Orleans Saints have been a buzzsaw over the first two weeks of the season and have a home tilt with the Philadelphia Eagles that highlights the early sl
It’s desperation time for some teams in the NFL, and we have yet to reach October.Historically speaking, falling into an 0–3 hole is a death knell for posts
The Detroit Lions are on the road for the first time in 2024, as they travel to the desert to take on the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3 of the 2024 season. â€
ShareJordan Love is officially inactiveAfter appearing at practice in a limited capacity during the week, Packers quarterback Jordan Love is OUT for today’s g