6 quarterbacks the Carolina Panthers must monitor for 2023
By Dean Jones
Which quarterbacks should already be on the Carolina Panthers’ radar for 2023 if Baker Mayfield cannot turn things around?
Things have not gone according to plan for Baker Mayfield so far. The Carolina Panthers are struggling to get anything going on offense outside of Christian McCaffrey, which is down to the quarterback’s lack of efficiency and Ben McAdoo’s lethargic scheme that is quickly figured out by opposing defenses.
Although Mayfield might not be pressing the panic button just yet, some fans have already given up. Whether it’s batted passes, accuracy issues, or hesitancy in the pocket, this was not what the Panthers had in mind when they acquired the former Oklahoma standout from the Cleveland Browns.
If things continue in the same manner throughout the campaign, then the Panthers will be forced to start from scratch once again at the most important position in football. Whether that also comes with a new regime is entirely up to team owner David Tepper.
With that in mind, here are six quarterbacks Carolina should be monitoring for 2023 if Mayfield cannot make the necessary improvements moving forward.
Quarterback No. 1
Carolina Panthers should monitor Cooper Rush
Dak Prescott’s injury hasn’t been sorely felt by the Dallas Cowboys thanks in no small part to the performances of Cooper Rush. The backup has looked poised more often than not and done just enough to keep some positive momentum churning, but it’s unlikely he’ll be given the keys to the kingdom long-term given how much Jerry Jones invested in the former Mississippi State star.
Rush is out of contract in 2023 and might land himself a starting gig based on this season’s production. The Carolina Panthers could be in the market for a short-term fix if Matt Corral needs further time to develop or they decide to look towards the draft for another long-term option.