4 high-upside quarterbacks the Panthers could draft in 2023
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could draft Cameron Ward
Having someone that can excite under center is something the Carolina Panthers haven’t possessed since Cam Newton was at the peak of his powers. A series of failed quarterback moves at football’s most important position ended up being Matt Rhule’s undoing, so their next personnel move in this area must be correct to stand any chance of real progress.
Given the momentum currently surrounding the team, Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud could be out of the question. That could lead them into a feast or famine gamble while they figure out what to do with their 2022 third-round selection, Matt Corral.
If this is the avenue they go down, then Cameron Ward is worth examining closer. The signal-caller had a tremendous campaign for Washington State and even though there is plenty of refinement needed before he can start in the NFL, the upside is there for all to see.
Ward has an NFL-caliber arm, which is always a solid foundation from which to build. He is largely accurate and seemingly fearless when it comes to fitting balls into tight windows, which can prove to be his undoing if the decision isn’t correct.
His confidence is remarkable for a player with relatively little in the way of experience. But pre-snap recognition needs refinement against professional defenses that can sniff out weakness a mile away.
This would be a two-year project for the Panthers, which would allow them to see what they have in Corral or someone else if another opportunity comes along in the short term.