4 options the Panthers have with Teddy Bridgewater in 2021
By Dean Jones
Keep starting Teddy Bridgewater and build around him
If the Carolina Panthers decided to give Teddy Bridgewater the benefit of the doubt, then it is vital they make the necessary moves to build around him next season. Few would argue that the wideout trio at the quarterback’s disposal isn’t among the NFL’s best. But there are some serious upgrades needed elsewhere to maximize their chances.
This all starts on the offensive line. One could make a case for four players from the current starting lineup not being around in 2021 and there is also the contract situation of right tackle Taylor Moton to consider.
It is essential for Carolina not only to re-sign Moton. But also bring in the reinforcements needed to give Bridgewater more time to go through his progressions.
John Miller, Chris Reed, and Matt Paradis are likely to be moved on, meaning the interior protection will look completely different next time around. Veteran Pro Bowler Russell Okung has done well at left tackle, on the whole, but he is now unreliable from a health perspective.
The Panthers might be in a position to select Oregon’s hot prospect Penei Sewell, who is widely regarded to be the best tackle prospect entering the NFL in a decade. This would be a great start if Carolina opted to stick with Bridgewater. But this situation might already be past the point of no return.