4 reasons not to panic after Panthers hold firm at 2022 trade deadline
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers opted to hold firm at the 2022 trade deadline, but fans should not panic in the slightest despite this inactivity.
After trading away Christian McCaffrey and Robbie Anderson, many anticipated more moves for the Carolina Panthers before the 2022 trade deadline. Numerous players were the subject of interest from others across the league, but general manager Scott Fitterer and his staff opted to stand firm and allow Steve Wilks the chance to progress this group without any further roster alterations.
While the Panthers could use additional draft capital in pursuit of a sustainable future, one cannot ignore the improvements made under Wilks in the few short weeks since Matt Rhuls was fired. Carolina is going nowhere fast at 2-6, but those in power clearly feel like the necessary foundations are in place to demonstrate progress during their remaining fixtures.
This was somewhat frustrating for fans, who want to see a concise plan formed after so many rash decisions and questionable personnel moves during a catastrophic three years under Rhule’s leadership. But all they can do is trust Fitterer and his staff in the hope they can steady the ship.
With that being said, here are four reasons not to panic despite the Panthers standing pat at the 2022 trade deadline.
Reason No. 1
Carolina Panthers have confidence in this roster
Not trading any other established figures was the biggest indicator yet that the Carolina Panthers have complete confidence in this roster. Their record might not suggest it, but the progress under Steve Wilks in such a short space of time means further developments could be on the way the more familiar players become with the interim head coach’s professional methods.
There is a fine line between success and failure in the NFL. Had the Panthers not snatched defeat from the jaws of victory in Week 8 at the Atlanta Falcons, they’d be atop the NFC South and looking at a potential postseason berth rather than a top-three draft pick.
However, those in power saw enough to keep this group intact, which is a good thing in the short and potentially long term.