5 scapegoats if things go wrong for the Carolina Panthers in 2022

Who could emerge as the major scapegoats if things go wrong for the Carolina Panthers during a crossroads campaign in 2022?

Although this is normally a time of year for excitement, fans are rightfully erring on the side of caution regarding the Carolina Panthers and their chances in 2022. Questions over the quarterback position and head coach Matt Rhule make the upcoming campaign a precarious one for the franchise, with many experts projecting more misery on a tough-looking schedule from start to finish.

Carolina recently wrapped up its mandatory minicamp, which was the chance to provide another building block in their preparations ahead of the new season. What transpires in training camp will be even more important, with players lower down the pecking order also set to showcase what they could potentially bring to the organization in the preseason.

Hopefully, the Panthers‘ talented young core develop and veterans also raise their respective contributions. Much will also depend on whether running back Christian McCaffrey can remain healthy after featuring just 10 times over the last two years.

With this in mind, here are five potential scapegoats if things go wrong once again for the Panthers in 2022.

Scapegoat No. 1

Ben McAdoo – Carolina Panthers OC

There were some who raised their eyebrows after the Carolina Panthers’ rockstar search for a new offensive coordinator ended up with Ben McAdoo coming on board. The experienced figure didn’t end his time as head coach of the New York Giants on a positive note and although he’s seemingly much better suited to this position, it remains to be seen whether or not he can finally get the offense trending in the right direction.

McAdoo has wasted no time in making his presence felt. He was instrumental in tight-end Ian Thomas getting an extension this spring when many thought he’d be moved on, with the coordinator also throwing his weight behind the Panthers surging up the draft to select quarterback Matt Corral at No. 94 overall.

If these moves don’t pan out and the offense fails to improve significantly, then McAdoo’s head will be on the chopping block.