4 nice surprises from the Carolina Panthers offseason in 2022
By Dean Jones
It was an important offseason period for the Carolina Panthers, but which moves could turn out to be nice surprises when the real action begins in 2022?
Considering how poorly things went for the Carolina Panthers following their 3-0 start in 2021, it was vital for those in power to get some big decisions right this offseason. Thankfully, their approach was encouraging and leaves the roster looking much deeper than the one that ended the previous campaign at 5-12.
The Panthers kept faith with Matt Rhule as head coach despite most fans calling for change. They’ve also done everything in their power to ensure there are no more excuses for the former Baylor man in Year 3 when significant improvements are expected.
All this adds to the fascination surrounding Carolina as they prepare to descend on Spartanburg for their annual training camp. It’s going to be hot and intense, but the Panthers must put the right foundations in place to hit the ground running in 2022.
With this in mind, here are four nice surprises that emerged from another eventful offseason period for the Panthers.
Nice Surprise No. 1
Carolina Panthers did the right thing with OL
Strengthening the offensive line may have seemed like an obvious necessity for the Carolina Panthers after more torrid protection last time around. But it’s also been the case for several years now without any new arrivals moving the needle.
Hopefully, that will change after those in power focused on this crucial area of the field throughout the offseason. Ikem Ekwonu, Austin Corbett, and Bradley Bozeman should all provide upgrades and if Brady Christensen progresses as expected, then it gives Carolina four new men to put with stud right tackle Taylor Moton.
Big changes such as this normally take time to come together. However, this was a nice surprise after so many years of ignoring such a clear need for investment.