5 Carolina Panthers players unlikely to return in 2023
By Dean Jones
Cam Erving – Carolina Panthers OL
After a dismal first season as the Carolina Panthers left tackle, it didn’t come as much of a surprise to see Cam Erving occupying a reduced role in 2022. As stated previously, those in power invested extremely wisely during free agency and the draft, which has come with dramatic progression and real hope for the future.
Erving seems to be coping well with this transition. In fact, it’s a role in which the former first-round pick is currently thriving as a motivator, leader, and mentor.
Carolina’s rookie sensation Ikem Ekwonu has been glowing in praise of Erving, who’s left no stone unturned to smooth his transition to the professional ranks. Something that’s seen the North Carolina State product take off after a rough opening fortnight.
With that being said, Erving’s contract is up for renewal next spring, so it remains to be seen whether or not influential figures within the organization offer an extension. It would need to be on far less money than he received in 2021 and the role as a backup is the best he could hope for in Carolina.
In a weird way, Erving’s chances of sticking around have improved this season despite not seeing the field that much. But this is dependent on finances and whether the veteran believes he can earn a starting role elsewhere when the time comes.