5 Carolina Panthers players who could be cut ahead of time in 2023

Which Carolina Panthers players could be cut ahead of time during what promises to be another eventful offseason in 2023?

Although the Carolina Panthers are still fighting with maximum effort, it’s hard not to cast half an eye on what’s going to be yet another dramatic offseason for the franchise. Many big changes are set to take place once again regardless of whether interim head coach Steve Wilks wins the job long-term or not as the team looks to finally form the foundations for a successful future after Matt Rhule’s cataclysmic reign.

Wilks is gaining significant momentum after galvanizing the Panthers to three wins. But the track record of interim head coaches who get permanent deals isn’t great and team owner David Tepper might look further afield in pursuit of finally getting this key appointment right.

Many players are also facing uncertain futures. This is especially evident for those out of contract and with money tight, some additional sacrifices could be made in pursuit of strengthening Carolina’s aspirations next season and beyond.

With that in mind, here are five Panthers players who could be cut ahead of time in 2023.

Player No. 1

Zane Gonzalez – Carolina Panthers K

The NFL is a cutthroat business. Zane Gonzalez’s season-ending injury during the preseason was a bitter blow for the Carolina Panthers and the kicker, who proved highly consistent and well-deserving of the contract extension that came his way.

Gonzalez has watched from the sidelines as Eddy Pineiro’s made the most out of his latest opportunity. Aside from his poor outing at the Atlanta Falcons, he’s been lights out and if those in power feel like this is the better option, the former seventh-round selection could be cut with a cap saving of $1.8 million.