5 major questions the Panthers must answer in 2022 free agency

What are the Carolina Panthers’ priorities in free agency?

Much has been made about what exactly the Carolina Panthers should outline as their top priority this offseason. There is a glaring need to fix the offensive line and Sam Darnold’s erratic production under center following his trade from the New York Jets could see those in power look for their third starting quarterback in as many offseasons.

Finding a long-term solution at middle linebacker and a consistent safety partner for Jeremy Chinn might also be sought. But whether this comes in free agency or during the 2022 NFL Draft remains to be seen.

There is not a lot of money to go around when one considers draft picks also need to be signed. So making a plan and sticking to it is something the Panthers should do – even though it hasn’t really been utilized effectively over the last two free agency periods.

Picking up a veteran lineman or two would be the smart way to go. Matt Rhule needs to win right now and relying on rookie players across the protection is a crapshoot unless an elite prospect is chosen at No. 6 overall.

However, this needs real investment.

Getting cute with the likes of Cam Erving and Pat Elflein last spring came back to haunt Carolina. This also applies to the quarterback spot following failed gambles on Teddy Bridgewater and Sam Darnold.