5 shock quarterback targets for the Carolina Panthers in 2023
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could target Geno Smith
The feel-good story of the season so far is undoubtedly Geno Smith. A journeyman quarterback that’s found a completely new lease of life with the Seattle Seahawks in 2022.
It was easy to be skeptical about Smith despite beating out Drew Lock comfortably in training camp. His NFL career has been largely underwhelming since he was ousted as the New York Giants starter, so this was a last-chance saloon scenario for the player after he was chosen by Pete Carroll to replace Russell Wilson.
Simply put, Smith is absolutely thriving. On the other hand, Wilson’s time with the Denver Broncos hasn’t had the impact many anticipated considering the draft compensation and substantial financial outlay.
Smith has the Seahawks humming and if things continue in a similar fashion throughout 2022, the signal-caller will be among the favorites to secure the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award as a result of his efforts.
This will also draw attention from quarterback-needy teams like the Carolina Panthers. Going after Smith in free agency provides a veteran presence while Matt Corral or someone else develops their craft, but the Seahawks have the option of using the franchise or transition tags to keep the red-hot player around.