4 New Year’s wishes for the Carolina Panthers in 2023

Carolina Panthers seize control of NFC South

In truth, this might happen a lot sooner than anticipated. If the Carolina Panthers win their final two games, the NFC South championship will be theirs and fans can look forward to a home playoff contest for the first time since a dominant NFC title triumph in 2015.

Looking at the state of affairs within the division right now, it’s a mess. One could argue that the Panthers are in the best position to seize command of the NFC South long-term, providing the necessary recruits come into the fold this offseason.

There is an abundance of young talent all coming of age at the same time. Steve Wilks is getting them to sing from the same hymn sheet, so any further progress in 2023 will likely see them emerge as legitimate contenders for the foreseeable future.

Plenty of changes are likely to occur across the division once again next spring. If the Panthers nail almost every key personnel move – both playing and from a coaching standpoint – then bookmakers up and down the country could make them favorites to win the NFC South as a result.

Making the playoffs this season would be nice, but it should not detract from the bigger picture. The hope surrounding Carolina is encouraging – especially in recent weeks with Wilks calling the shots – so making a larger statement next season is a wish that has every chance of coming true.