5 critical observations from the Carolina Panthers 2022 offseason so far

Carolina Panthers have a window of opportunity

It’s been a dramatic offseason so far across the NFC South. Something that could result in a window of opportunity opening for the Carolina Panthers in 2022.

Sean Payton has stepped down as head coach of the New Orleans Saints after 16 years. Couple this with the team’s current salary-cap woes and it’s not hard to see why things could be in a period of transition that improves the Panthers’ chances for good measure.

There is also the impending retirement of Tom Bray looming large on the division. Although initial reports were quashed on Saturday afternoon, all signs point to the legendary Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback calling it a day after seven Super Bowl titles, which could be the catalyst behind some veteran departures in free agency.

Matt Ryan’s regression with the Atlanta Falcons only enhances Carolina’s hopes. Although they have to get their own problems sorted out first, the team’s divisional championship odds look far better right now than they did before their regular-season schedule came to a conclusion.

Things are hanging in the balance, obviously. But the Panthers cannot afford to waste such an opportunity if Brady does end up hanging up his cleats as expected.