Jonathan Mingo Responds to Biggest Criticism Following Rookie Season

The Panthers have heightened expectations offensively after bringing in several new playmakers like Diontae Johnson, Xavier Legette, and Jonathon Brooks. However, another part of the equation requires continued development from 2023 second-round pick Jonathan Mingo.

He caught 43 of 85 targets for 418 yards in his rookie campaign, failing to find the end zone. Mingo was criticized at times for his route running, though he responded to those claims dismissively, confident in his abilities on the field.

Speaking with Joseph Person of The Athletic, Mingo asserted that he knows what he brings to the table.

Jonathan Mingo Responds to Route-Running Criticism

When asked if he thought the criticism was justified or overblown, Mingo said, "At the end of the day, I know I can run routes. I feel when it comes down to it, I’m a good route runner. I know what I can do when it comes to route running. People might try to say stuff...People don’t know game. They’re on the outside looking in. Just like we can see a defense and know what coverage they’re in. I know I can run routes."

Playing alongside route-running technicians in Adam Thielen and now Diontae Johnson, Mingo has two of the NFL's best to learn from. He caught 51 passes for 861 yards and five TDs in 2022 at Mississippi, and it sounds like he's ready to prove he's an important part of the offense.

"You’re not going to win all of ’em," Mingo continued. "But I’m damn sure gonna win the majority of ’em."

Mingo noted he felt he was making good progress against Tampa Bay in early December, when he caught six passes for a season-high 69 yards. He managed only nine receptions for the rest of the season but suffered a foot injury.

Now that he's healthy, Mingo is ready to contribute. His rookie campaign was nothing to scoff at, though he still has some critics to silence on the field.

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