5 Carolina Panthers firmly on the hot seat entering 2022 season
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers find themselves firmly on the hot seat ahead of a tremendously important 2022 season for the organization?
Stakes are high for many on the Carolina Panthers next season. There is a growing sense of frustration within the fanbase after three consecutive five-win campaigns, with the anger being primarily directed at owner David Tepper for his apparent mismanagement of team affairs since purchasing the franchise from Jerry Richardson for a then-record $2.2 billion.
A solid spell of recruitment and improved structure to the preparation period has left some reasons for optimism. The Panthers have the talent, it’s just getting them to click when things get serious that remains the big question mark.
For the team, trending on an upward curve after so much failure would mean everything. But there are plenty of individuals who also have lots at stake during what promises to be a fascinating season.
With this in mind, here are five Panthers who are firmly on the hot seat entering 2022.
Panther No. 1
Terrace Marshall Jr. – Carolina Panthers WR
Speculation was rampant about Terrace Marshall Jr.’s status this offseason. The wide receiver flashed his qualities throughout camp for the second-straight year, but more injury complications followed that drew some frustrated remarks shortly before their final preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.
Talks of trading or even releasing Marshall were easy to find. But giving up on him so early would be a major gamble given the talent at his disposal.
The Carolina Panthers kept faith with the 2021 second-round selection out of LSU. However, if Marshall cannot turn things around this season, he might not be so lucky next time around.