5 Carolina Panthers on the hot seat entering Week 3 vs. Saints

Matt Rhule – Carolina Panthers HC

Nothing to see here, right?

The Carolina Panthers and Matt Rhule might believe they are close. However, that doesn’t heap any less misery on the organization after such a torrid run since the head coach replaced Ron Rivera on a seven-year, $62 million deal.

Rhule came into the season with a fresh mindset and appeared more confident than ever in his team. However, two disappointing defeats against clubs led by Jacoby Brissett and Daniel Jones coupled with the same inefficient offense has seen all optimism evaporate in the blink of an eye.

Many are now speculating when Rhule will be removed from his duties, not if. Not exactly what the Panthers had in mind to start the magical Year 3 when everything was supposed to click.

In fairness to Rhule, he knows talk is cheap right now. His statement surrounding nobody wanting to hear about his process until Carolina starts winning was welcome, but it doesn’t change the fact another season is threatening to spiral out of control.

It’s been more than a year since the Panthers won in front of their fans. And their last regular-season triumph came in Week 10 at the Arizona Cardinals, who they face in Week 4.

The New Orleans Saints won’t be doing Rhule any favors, that’s for sure. So this is a huge test of character and one that could make or break his rein.