4 critical observations from the Carolina Panthers firing Matt Rhule

Carolina Panthers GM Scott Fitterer deserves some heat

It’s fair to say recently one of the only members of the Carolina Panthers organization who has seen any praise is Scott Fitterer. While the general manager has made some good moves, is it time fans start questioning his time with the team so far?

Now in reality, how much real power did Fitterer have? It was noted that especially last season Matt Rhule had almost complete control over footballing decisions, but it seemed this balance shifted this offseason with the former Seattle Seahawks front office figure becoming more influential.

We’ve seen Fitterer pull off some solid moves, but others have rightly been questioned. Of course, the trade for Sam Darnold has come under scrutiny as Carolina sent three draft picks to the New York Jets for the worst starting quarterback in the league.

There’s also scrutiny being put on the trade for cornerback C.J. Henderson, which cost the Panthers tight end, Dan Arnold, in addition to a third-rounder for the Florida product and a fifth-round selection.

From what we’ve seen out of Henderson so far, the Panthers are unlikely to pick up his fifth-year option once the season is done. With the poor play from the tight-end group, they could have used the production of someone like Arnold in 2022.

While true criticism for Fitterer should be held until he has picked his own head coach and quarterback, it’s certainly fair for fans to be doubting his credentials in the wake of Rhule’s firing.