What does Frank Reich want in his future Carolina Panthers QB?

What is new Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich looking for in the team’s future franchise quarterback ahead of his first season at the helm?

Frank Reich is no stranger to quarterbacking. He is the first Carolina Panthers signal-caller to throw a touchdown in franchise history and has also developed a fine reputation for developing talent at the position throughout his illustrious coaching career to date.

This just so happens to be something Carolina’s previous regime couldn’t accomplish effectively. A series of failed trades and suspect free-agent signings left team owner David Tepper with no option other than to fire Matt Rhule, so finding a long-term solution is absolutely essential for Reich and the Panthers this offseason.

Reich’s undoing with the Indianapolis Colts came in the immediate aftermath of Andrew Luck’s bombshell retirement. Instead of building through the draft, those in power opted to gamble on quarterbacks past their primes such as Matt Ryan and Carson Wentz, which failed to bring the stability needed at football’s most crucial position.

Acquiring a top-notch coaching staff is Reich’s first priority. After that, attention must turn to a new quarterback capable of bringing the Panthers back to prominence.

Frank Reich reveals what he wants in the next Carolina Panthers QB

But what does Reich look for in a franchise-caliber player under center?

When speaking with Panthers.com reporter Kristen Balboni after agreeing to become head coach, Reich outlined the true qualities he believes every productive NFL quarterback should have.

"“It really starts with toughness. A quarterback has to be mentally and physically tough. The other thing that makes a quarterback great is decision-making – they have to be a great decision-maker. They have got to be an accurate passer and a playmaker in crucial situations of a game – red-zone, third down, in two minute – the quarterback needs to elevate the team. The last thing I think of is those X-factor intangibles, the leadership qualities that bring players together. There are other leaders on the team, but the quarterback plays a special role and you’ve gotta have that.”"

Where this leads Reich and the Panthers remains to be seen. All signs point to the 2023 NFL Draft and landing one of the top college recruits, although Carolina needs to think outside the box from No. 9 overall after their mini-resurgence under Steve Wilks.

If the Panthers feel particularly enamored with one particular prospect, then trading up becomes a real possibility. In this scenario, players like Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud certainly possess the traits Reich’s looking for in his next signal-caller.

This will be the main topic of discussion throughout the offseason. Events such as the 2023 Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine are almost upon us, which will give Reich and other influential figures within the organization a chance to sit down with Stroud, Young, and others before coming to a formal conclusion.

If the Panthers get this decision right, the future is incredibly bright. The NFC South looks there for the taking – especially if Tom Brady leaves the Tampa Bay Buccaneers – but this is entirely dependent on finding a quarterback Carolina can rely on in critical moments.

Reich has proven credentials when it comes to nurturing talent. Something that no doubt played a leading role in Tepper giving him the nod over Wilks when push came to shove.

Find the right guy and strike with conviction. Should the Panthers accomplish this, they might just have a chance.