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.
Robbie Anderson – Carolina Panthers WR
After a down year, Robbie Anderson has everything to prove once again. The wideout has already proven capable of reaching the 1,000 receiving yard milestone during his first season with the Carolina Panthers, but he cut a forlorn figure more often than not in 2021 thanks to poor form and inconsistent quarterback play.
The Panthers reportedly received trade calls for Anderson on final cut day. But these were refused in no uncertain terms as those in power give the former Temple star one more opportunity next season.
Anderson took time to get going in camp. However, there were some encouraging signs of chemistry developing between the wideout and new quarterback Baker Mayfield, which could make a massive difference when competitive action arrives.
Carolina will be banking on Anderson returning to his 2020 form. One also cannot ignore the financial incentive for the player, who is set to count a whopping $21.71 million against the salary cap in the final year of his deal.
There’s no doubt Anderson has his swagger back. Whether this comes with improved production is the big question.
One thing that cannot be disputed is his importance to Carolina next season. Given Mayfield’s gunslinging mindset and elite arm strength, Anderson could be the player who benefits most from his arrival when it’s all said and done.
Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB
Christian McCaffrey does not find himself on this list due to poor form or a lack of talent. The running back’s production remains elite and he is the league’s best dual-threat player without question, but lingering injury problems have blighted his last two years in the league and this has to change for the Carolina Panthers to stand any chance of progression in 2022.
McCaffrey has turned out 10 times in two seasons. More importantly, the Panthers went to absolute pieces without their best offensive player.
The strategy has changed regarding McCaffrey’s training regime this offseason. This stemmed from a period of self-reflection from the former first-round pick following a frank discussion with Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk on how best to stay healthy.
There’s no doubt McCaffrey has looked the part once again this summer. Carolina rightfully kept him out of the firing line during their three preseason games, but the explosiveness and elite route-running caught the eye throughout camp and in joint practices with the New England Patriots.
If McCaffrey cannot stay on the field for a consistent period in 2022, the Panthers have a real problem on their hands. One that could see the Stanford product traded for compensation that doesn’t befit his immense credentials.
Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB
Hope is something the Carolina Panthers haven’t had at quarterback for some time.
It was there briefly when Cam Newton returned in 2021. But not since the former NFL MVP was in his prime has there been a legitimate belief that the man under center can take over a game and will the team to victory.
Now, it might be a different story.
Baker Mayfield‘s arrival via trade from the Cleveland Browns could be the spark Carolina needs. The fiery signal-caller has a big chip on his shoulder and integrated superbly into the franchise despite the short timeframe after the move was confirmed.
Mayfield quietly went about his business with determination, improved leadership, and renewed focus. Players selected No. 1 overall normally get a second chance somewhere, but there might not be a third if the Oklahoma product cannot make a go of things in a different environment.
Everything seems to be in place for Mayfield to thrive. Carolina has Christian McCaffrey back, an abundance of weapons in the passing game, upgrades across the offensive line, and a coordinator in Ben McAdoo whose scheme looks tailor-made for his new quarterback.
It would be a surprise if Mayfield didn’t bounce back. However, that does not detract from what a crossroads campaign awaits the Heisman Trophy winner.
Matt Rhule – Carolina Panthers HC
There are no more excuses for Matt Rhule.
None.
The Carolina Panthers placed a significant amount of faith in Rhule by giving him a seven-year, $62 million deal and the final say on personnel decisions. Even after losing 12 of their final 14 games in 2021, team owner David Tepper remained loyal to his guy when many across the fanbase and the national media predicted change would arrive.
Carolina surrounded Rhule with everything he needs this offseason. New coaches arrived with proven track records in the NFL and the roster now looks well-rounded aside from one or two problem positional groups that could use further reinforcements.
Rhule himself has also made changes to his approach. The former Baylor man was keen for the Panthers to become more player-orientated and his more relaxed demeanor in front of the media is also something that hasn’t gone unnoticed.
This is all positive. But it will count for absolutely nothing if Rhule and the Panthers don’t build some early momentum with so many home games to begin the campaign.
We’ll find out once and for all whether or not Rhule can emerge as a legitimate NFL head coach and make the adjustments needed to help Carolina become competitive at long last.
If he can’t, then Tepper might not be so lenient after the campaign concludes this time.