4 immediate offseason objectives for the Carolina Panthers in 2023

Carolina Panthers must find a franchise QB

It is no secret around the league that the Carolina Panthers have suffered from inconsistent and, at times, inept play from the most crucial position in football since 2019.

The long list of names that have played under center is long. Kyle Allen, Will Grier, Teddy Bridgewater, P.J Walker, Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, and Cam Newton were a mixed bag at best.

Newton had good moments when he briefly reunited with the organization. But due to injuries, age, and having two weeks to learn the playbook, the former NFL MVP was a shell of what he used to be.

What can David Tepper, Scott Fitterer, and the rest of the organization learn from this?

Do not mismanage acquiring a quarterback.

All those players listed were forced into starts because of injuries or were unpredictable and unproven with their previous teams before joining the Panthers. All the successful franchises in the NFL have proven commodities under center. And when Carolina was at the height of their power, they had a proven, All-Pro-caliber quarterback leading the offense.

Drafting Matt Corral was a good decision, but he got injured in the preseason. His ability at the NFL level is to be determined and the Panthers cannot afford to take a chance on another unknown quarterback going into 2023.

There are seemingly two options for Fitterer to work his magic to attain the missing piece for the Panthers. Trade up and draft one of the blue-chip quarterbacks or make the call to acquire 2018 MVP Lamar Jackson, who was reportedly disgruntled with the Baltimore Ravens about a new contract and could be on the move.

Whatever decision Fitterer makes, one thing is clear – the Panthers have to get the right guy at quarterback. Until they do, Carolina will stay stuck in the mud.