5 difficult questions facing the Carolina Panthers in 2022 free agency
By Dean Jones
What are some difficult questions facing the Carolina Panthers during a hugely significant 2022 free agency period for the franchise?
We are rapidly approaching a franchise-altering free agency period for the Carolina Panthers. Some big names need new contracts, problem areas are in dire need of a makeover, and there is also the status of quarterback Sam Darnold coming in for significant doubt to further complicate matters.
Fans are approaching this offseason with a level of dismay after team owner David Tepper decided to move forward with Matt Rhule, with a daunting 2022 schedule not exactly filling anybody with the greatest sense of optimism.
With just one draft pick in the top-100 right now, it’s vital for the Panthers to make their free-agent moves count more than ever. Otherwise, there could be some huge problems that emerge as a result.
This is something those within the organization are acutely aware of. And Tepper will be piling on the pressure in his own way after another failed campaign that promised much but delivered very little.
With this in mind, here are five difficult questions the Panthers must answer in 2022 free agency.
Decision No. 1
What is the Carolina Panthers’ plan on special teams?
The Carolina Panthers should extend kicker Zane Gonzalez after an outstanding 2021 season. But there remains some doubt as to what their next moves will be at other important positions on special teams.
Lachlan Edwards was inconsistent during his brief stint as the team’s punter and Alex Erickson didn’t offer much in the return game despite demonstrating assured hands with players flying in his face.
With new special teams coordinator Chris Tabor joining the fold after Chase Blackburn was fired, it could result in a completely different approach. One the Panthers have to get right in pursuit of progression.