Panthers 7-round 2023 mock draft: Daring trade brings rewards

Carolina Panthers select Anthony Richardson

• Quarterback | Florida

Finding a potential franchise quarterback is priority No. 1 for the Carolina Panthers this offseason. Another failed veteran trade to acquire Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns didn’t work out and with only Matt Corral under contract in 2023, there won’t be a better time to hit the reset button.

Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud are the top two prospects taking their chances at the next level. But there are many more with the intangibles needed to become productive NFL starters with further refinement.

Perhaps the signal-caller gaining steam at just the right time could be the answer. Anthony Richardson has faults, but his upside is absolutely off the charts and if he gets enough time to develop upon arriving in the pros, this is a prospect with tremendous promise.

Richardson came into the campaign with very little starting experience in Florida. It’s been a rollercoaster for the dual-threat weapon, but the strides made overall could mean he’s taken much early than originally anticipated.

There are elements of Richardson’s skill set that cannot be taught. His accuracy and decision-making need refinement, but this would provide Carolina with the hope they’ve sorely lacked under center since the days of Cam Newton.