Carolina Panthers: Offseason Panic Mode 2021 Edition

The Carolina Panthers never took off in 2020. They finished 5-7 in a competitive division that saw two division rivals make the playoffs. If they don’t have a strong offseason, it might be time to panic well before the season starts.

Slow On Quarterback

There are plenty of QBs on the move this offseason between the draft and teams willing to part ways. The only problem is, the Panthers seem late to the party. They may have announced early on that they don’t intend to continue with Teddy Bridgewater, but they’re already behind. Between teams like the Lions and Rams swapping quarterbacks and teams trading up to leapfrog Carolina for a top prospect, the Panthers seem stuck in neutral. There’s still plenty of offseason but they need to get on the fast track.

Find More DBs

Defensively, the Carolina Panthers can’t compete in their division. While Drew Brees might be retiring, there’s still the task of stopping Tom Brady. The Panthers, like the rest of the NFL, haven’t figured out their way to slow him down. If they can’t find ways to get turnovers and put themselves in a position to win, he and the rest of the division will continue to pass all over them.

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Replacing Greg Olsen

When it comes to the TE position, Greg Olsen has always stood out in Carolina. After 14 seasons he’s hanging up his cleats and the Panthers again need to act quickly to find his replacement. Sure they could draft one in this year’s draft, but with an assumed rookie QB, you don’t want his bail-out position to be learning as well. If Carolina wants to have a playmaker who will get open on broken plays, then it’s time to start sniffing around veteran tight ends like Zach Ertz.

More Bulk, Less Sacks

Unless the Panthers wind up with a mobile QB, they’ll need to upgrade their offensive line. While Teddy Bridgewater may have moved the pocket, there’s a good chance they’ll wind up with more of a pocket passer. If they can’t find a way to protect a rookie QB as he learns the speed of the game, their line that allowed 36 sacks last season might make it ugly for their offense. There’s plenty of talent to go around this draft and they’ll need it.

When the Carolina Panthers stop stalling and start making moves, they might be okay. Unfortunately, other teams are already pulling out all the stops. If the Panthers continue to be indecisive, look for another losing season on the horizon.