Turning the calendar to September means welcoming the glorious return of football season – and no one is more excited than the Carolina Panthers, their fans, and their groovy, skittish mascot, Sir Purr. Whether you’ve seen his moves in person, or, like Panthers receiver Robby Anderson, you have no idea who he is, one thing you have to know is that Sir Purr lives to get down. Here are the top four reasons he can look forward to plenty of dancing this year, plus one way you can celebrate the new season at The Palmer. Keep Pounding!
Sam Darnold at the Helm
The Panthers have a new signal caller, and one to be excited about, in Sam Darnold. The third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, and still only 24 years old, Darnold brings an elite skill set to the position. In Carolina, he’ll be surrounded by the best offense he’s ever had, including some elite playmakers. When the Panthers take the field for their season opener against the New York Jets on Sunday, Sept. 12, Darnold will have a chance for sweet revenge against his former team, and he could be in store for a big year.
Christian McCaffrey Taking It to the House
Maybe the best offensive player in football, Christian McCaffrey is worth the price of admission alone. He’s lightning-quick, tough, and thrilling to watch. We didn’t get to see much of him in 2020 during an injury-plagued year that saw him miss 13 games, but McCaffrey is back to remind fans that he’s an electrifying player capable of making anything and everything happen on the field. McCaffrey will carry the Panthers offense yet again this year, no doubt providing plenty of explosive plays to get Sir Purr rocking.
Matt Rhule Leading the Team
In his first season as head coach of the Panthers last year, Matt Rhule led the team to a 5-11 record, but there were plenty more reasons to be excited than the five wins. Six of the team’s losses were by a touchdown or less, and they consistently competed hard, despite missing one of their best players in McCaffrey, and not yet having a franchise quarterback. As coach, Rhule brings a positive energy and excitement that bodes well for the coming season and the future.
The New Draft Class Making an Impact
During the 2021 NFL Draft, the Panthers brought several exciting rookies into the fold who are primed to make an impact right away. Cornerback Jaycee Horn has earned rave reviews through the preseason as a tough defensive tone-setter and a lockdown cover corner. Wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. brings a big body (6’4”) and big play ability to the team, and he performed exceptionally well in the Panthers’ preseason games, leading the team in receiving yards in Week 1 and Week 2 and finding the end zone in Week 3. There’s a lot to watch for with this new group of talented young players.
Kicking Off the New Season With The Palmer
Here at The Palmer, we’re thrilled that football is back! Break out your favorite Panthers jersey and gear, and come celebrate the new season with us on Monday, Sept. 20, from 3-6 PM. We’ll have hot dogs, chili, and snacks to get the party started.
For more on Carolina sports and activities, plus details on our great resident events, make sure to check out The Palmer blog.