4 major elements that held the Carolina Panthers back in 2022
By Dean Jones
What major elements held the Carolina Panthers back during another rollercoaster campaign for the organization in 2022?
Upon further examination of the Carolina Panthers in 2022, their fortune can be split into two parts. The opening stages under Matt Rhule and when interim head coach Steve Wilks took over leadership responsibilities.
This didn’t amount to an elusive postseason berth, although the Panthers went closer than many envisaged after such a horrific start. But there is enough to suggest they can take charge of a weak-looking NFC South providing the team’s upcoming moves all pan out effectively.
A huge amount of work is ahead for Carolina’s new head coach and leading front-office figures. The presence of erratic owner David Tepper meddling in football affairs is something else that cannot be dismissed for good or bad.
An important offseason awaits. But for now, here are four major elements that held the Panthers back in 2022.
Major Element No. 1
Carolina Panthers’ pass rush failed
Letting Haason Reddick leave in free agency was a suspect gamble that went as many anticipated. The Carolina Panthers had almost no consistent pass-rushing presence opposite Brian Burns, while the former Temple star gained 16 sacks and a second-team All-Pro honor with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Yetur Gross-Matos blew his opportunity to become a long-term starter. Marquis Haynes did well in a rotational role, but whether he’ll be anything more than that over his career is up for debate.
The Panthers must reinforce this key area as a matter of urgency this offseason. Because they cannot move forward with their current options.