The source ranks James Anderson at No. 59 on its all-time Panthers list, recognizing his seven-year tenure as a quality linebacker who became a key member of the defense. His peak came in 2010 with 130 tackles (101 solo), 13 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, seven quarterback hits, one interception, two forced fumbles, and three fumbles recovered across 43 of 44 possible starts in a three-year stretch (2010–2012). In 2011, he posted career highs with 145 tackles, two interceptions, and nine passes defended. The source notes he was an important part of the Panthers franchise despite never receiving national accolades, and that his departure in 2012 was a cap space casualty decision made after the Panthers added Jon Beason and Luke Kuechly to the roster.