Which Carolina Panthers players are fighting for their long-term futures with the franchise when they return from their Week 13 bye?
Heading into the bye week with a 5-7 record was not exactly what the Carolina Panthers had in mind. There was a real buzz across the organization just a few short weeks ago following Cam Newton’s return and an incredible victory at the Arizona Cardinals, which has been swiftly followed by two disastrous losses that leave their hopes of reaching the playoffs in tatters.
There is mounting pressure on Matt Rhule, his coaching, staff and certain players. The murmurings of discontent continue to grow and unless some big changes are made that result in improved production on the field, it could be yet another eventful offseason period for the Panthers.
What transpires during a daunting final few games of the campaign will have severe repercussions for many. Plenty of established individuals are out of contract next spring and others will also be nervously looking over their shoulders when it’s time for the front office to begin making personnel decisions.
With this in mind, here are five Panthers players fighting for their future after the bye week.
Player No. 1
Michael Jordan – Carolina Panthers OG
It’s been an encouraging start overall for Michael Jordan since he was installed as the starter. But two concerning performances before the bye means the jury is still well and truly out as to whether the interior offensive lineman will still be on the Panthers next season.
Jordan was a breath of fresh air considering the line’s struggles earlier in the campaign. He’s certainly outperformed others on the depth chart, but this isn’t saying much considering how porous this unit has been more often than not in 2021.
What’s important for Jordan is to shrug off these bad performances, take stock of his production so far during Carolina’s time off and come back a better player for the run-in.
If he can do this, then a new deal might follow.