6 prospects the Panthers should monitor during 2023 CFB playoffs

Carolina Panthers should monitor C.J. Stroud

• Quarterback | Ohio State Buckeyes

Sam Darnold’s resurgence should not pull the Carolina Panthers away from examining the top quarterback prospects in 2023. This ongoing complication played a huge role in Matt Rhule’s demise and whether it’s Steve Wilks or someone else, the issue must be addressed as a matter of urgency.

It remains to be seen where the Panthers end up drafting thanks to their stunning turnaround with Wilks at the helm. Something that could impact which signal-callers will be available without a daring trade-up.

Regardless, scouts and other influential figures should watch C.J. Stroud‘s performance against the Georgia Bulldogs with keen interest. The prospect has all the making of a productive NFL quarterback and might be able to start Day 1 with a smooth transition in the right set-up.

Stroud is accurate, poised, and maneuvers well in the pocket. There are very few holes in his game, but most consider him to be a pocket passer rather than a dual threat currently.

Another standout feature of Stroud’s game is going through reads quickly and keeping his eyes downfield in the face of pressure. Most qualms about the player stem from Ohio State quarterbacks failing to adjust to the pros in recent years, which is why scouting the prospect and not the program remains of paramount importance.

Stroud could be a top-five selection with a strong end to his time with the Buckeyes. But there’s also a chance he could slide depending on what unfolds in the coming months.

If that’s the case, Carolina shouldn’t hesitate.