Panthers balance sheet: Offense in the black after major QB move
By Dean Jones
The big changes
Outside of the Sam Darnold trade and the departures of Teddy Bridgewater and Curtis Samuel, there have been other big changes that could have some huge ramifications on the team’s chances in 2021.
The Carolina Panthers recognized the need for better options at the tight end position, bringing in Dan Arnold in free agency and allocating a third-round pick on Tommy Tremble out of Notre Dame. Both could be a real upgrade on Ian Thomas, who is still on the roster and received praise from Matt Rhule for the way he’s approached the offseason so far.
Much will also depend on how the protection holds out, which struggled to meet targets once again in 2020. Russell Okung was shown the door after featuring in just seven games and it remains to be seen whether the likes of Brady Christensen, Deonte Brown, Cam Erving, or Pat Elflein are capable of providing improved consistency.
There was some good news regarding stud right tackle Taylor Moton, who got the franchise tag. John Miller was also brought back on a team-friendly deal and there might be more to come from the former Cincinnati Bengal with more talent around him.
Carolina also brought plenty of dynamic skill players on board during the draft.
Terrace Marshall Jr. and Shi Smith should bolster a wide receiver room that also has David Moore to call upon, with running back Chuba Hubbard also coming with a big reputation as he looks to take some of the load from All-Prio Christian McCaffrey.
Overall, it’s hard to look at Carolina’s current options across the offense and not think it’s been upgraded over the spring. Whether they can put it all together when it counts is another matter entirely.