4 things that must change for the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
What has to change within the Carolina Panthers as the team looks to get out of their current slump in 2022?
With the 2021 season now in the books for the Carolina Panthers, the focus is now on reflection, rest, and potentially big changes across the organization this offseason. Matt Rhule’s methods have come in for some severe criticism from fans, analysts, and former players such as Tre Boston and DeAngelo Williams, who feel the former Baylor and Temple man is not the right figurehead to lead the franchise moving forward.
It appears as if team owner David Tepper is willing to give Rhule another campaign to turn things around. But if the head coach cannot figure things out in Year 3, it might be the last we see of him in Carolina.
Some questionable personnel moves coupled with a clear incapability to make the necessary in-game adjustments have cost Rhule and the Panthers this season. With three coaches fired and offensive coordinator Joe Brady also removed midway through the bye, there are no more scapegoats to carry the can.
With this in mind, here are four big changes the Panthers must make this offseason in the hope of finally trending in the right direction when competitive action begins once again.
Change No. 1
Carolina Panthers must stick to an OL combination
It was no surprise to see the offensive line become a weak link for the Carolina Panthers in 2021. Underperforming veterans and unproven rookies are one thing, but the constant chopping and changing from the coaching staff in terms of their starting options left almost no continuity outside of stud right tackle Taylor Moton.
This is something that has to change next season. Carolina must recruit well via free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft, find their desired starting combination, and stick with it throughout the campaign.
Obviously, no team can account for injuries. But unless the Panthers can come up with a better plan, then the same complications will undoubtedly emerge.