Panthers QB Sam Darnold building connection with DJ Moore, Dan Arnold

On3 imageby:Wade Peery08/08/21
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Carolina Panthers’ quarterback Sam Darnold has been drawing rave reviews in training camp the first few days. NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe reports that Darnold has been “turning it on” and that one connection to watch is with Carolina tight end Dan Arnold.

“The other day, Sam Darnold threw a touchdown pass to tight end Dan Arnold,” Wolfe explained, “and he yells, ‘Darnold to Arnold, baby! Get used to seeing that.”

Another person in training camp that has been impressed by Darnold is fourth year wideout D.J. Moore. “The first thing that stands out to me about Sam is his composure. Like, even if things get too hectic at practice, they make it hectic on him, he just stays calm, cool and collected like Sam is. So, over the time I’ve gotten to know him, he’s just been the same person.”

Moore is one of the NFL’s most explosive wideouts. The former Maryland standout has put together back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons in the league, but he feels like he’s still not getting the respect he deserves.

He spoke with NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe after practice recently. “I always look at myself as a top-tier player in the league,” Moore said. “So, numbers really don’t matter, rankings don’t matter to me. I just go out there and do what’s best for the team. Having another 1,000 yards would be amazing so I’m gonna go strive for that.”

The 6-0, 210 pounder has game-breaking 4.42 speed in the open field; so it’s going to be exciting to watch him and Darnold connect.

Panthers head coach Matt Rhule had great things to say about Darnold in this interview with Sports Illustrated. He talked about Darnold’s progression. “I think he’s made a lot of really good decisions. He’s a grinder, he’s coachable. I’ve been nothing but pleased with Sam. I think when he does something that we don’t want and we tell him, right away it’s ‘got it’. 

Darnold has been re-united with his old teammate with the New York Jets, wide receiver Robby Anderson. Anderson has been dealing with personal issues in Florida recently and hasn’t been at Panthers’ training camp the past few days.

In 2020, Anderson had one of his best seasons yet in the NFL, hauling in 95 catches for 1,096 yards and three touchdowns.

He’s been one of the best deep threats in the National Football League the past few years.

The Panthers’ offense is absolutely loaded this year with running back Christian McCaffery, Robby Anderson, DJ Moore, and rookie Terrace Marshall, Jr.. Let’s not forget Dan Arnold!

If Sam Darnold can continue to improve his connection with the Panthers’ pass catchers, there will be a lot for Carolina fans to smile about in 2021.