5 exciting Carolina Panthers storylines to watch in 2022 training camp

Matt Rhule’s approach to Carolina Panthers training camp

Entering his third season with the Carolina Panthers, Matt Rhule is in murky waters ahead of what feels like a make-or-break season.

Highly touted for his work at Baylor University, owner David Tepper rewarded Rhule with an enormous seven-year, $62 million dollar deal in addition to his $6 million dollar buyout to prize him from the college ranks.

The first two seasons have been a disaster with a 10-23 record, the firing of offensive coordinator Joe Brady, signing off on the Sam Darnold trade, and failing to meet expectations of both the front office and fanbase.

At times, Rhule seems to be in over his head. He is constantly outcoached and has not developed players in the same fashion as what we saw in college.

However, Rhule has the backing of Tepper, who ultimately controls his fate with the franchise.

Rhule is coaching for his job this season and was wise to bring in Ben McAdoo to run the offense. With that being said, he needs to improve the win total this season to continue into the fourth year of his contract.

Tepper is not afraid to make drastic changes, even if all may not always make sense. But a few million dollars remaining on this contract will not prevent the billionaire from pulling the plug on the Rhule era.

Expect to see Rhule be more of a player’s coach this season and more hands-off on the play calling. If McAdoo can work his quarterback magic, the offensive line can gel, and stability is found at the quarterback position, an increase in wins is feasible.

With training camp just a week away, anticipation is building in the Carolinas for a new season. A chance to erase the painful memories of the past few years, and an opportunity to rewrite the narrative of the Tepper and Rhule era.