Which first-year Carolina Panthers players could be gone during what promises to be an eventful 2023 offseason for the franchise?
There are a large number of crucial decisions awaiting the Carolina Panthers this offseason. They acted relatively swiftly to solve their head coaching riddle with Frank Reich, but the players are still awaiting their respective fates before free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft.
One suspects they’ll be a collective approach rather than giving one man absolute power again. This is something team owner David Tepper cannot do after relinquishing control to Matt Rhule, who wasn’t capable or experienced enough to cope with these significant responsibilities.
It’s a big offseason for Scott Fitterer, who was complicit in Rhule’s failings if nothing else. If the general manager cannot put the right foundations in place for Reich, then he could be facing severe job uncertainty this time next year.
That’s for the future. For now, here are five first-year Panthers players who could be gone in 2023.
Player No. 1
Damien Wilson – Carolina Panthers LB
Big changes could be coming to the linebacking corps in the coming months. The Carolina Panthers need stability at the second level after years of trying to put a band-aid fix on Luke Kuechly’s bombshell retirement following the 2019 campaign. There is no better time than now with Frank Reich leading the charge.
One player that’s unlikely to be part of the team’s future is Damien Wilson. The former Super Bowl winner just never fitted in well enough and the cap savings involved with his early release mean he’ll be looking for alternative employment in free agency.
Matt Ioannidis – Carolina Panthers DT
When the Carolina Panthers picked up Matt Ioannidis following his release by the Washington Commanders, there was a sense of trepidation. Mainly because so many former Matt Rhule college players failed to meet expectations.
Thankfully, that wasn’t the case with Ioannidis.
The defensive tackle became a stable presence alongside Derrick Brown. Although there were some injury complications, the player’s production was decent considering he became lost amidst all the first-round selections on Washington’s front seven.
Ioannidis signed a one-year deal last spring. For continuity purposes, it would be prudent for the Panthers to keep him around, but much will also depend on how the new coaching staff perceives his importance working in partnership with general manager Scott Fitterer.
There are also financial ramifications to consider. Ioannidis might be out of Carolina’s price range depending on his demands, so a scenario could emerge where the Panthers go in a different direction entirely.
This would leave the Panthers short of reliable options on their defensive front. Of course, picking up options via free agency and the draft often occurs, but Ioannidis did enough for a short-term extension at the very least.
Bradley Bozeman – Carolina Panthers C
Before we discuss Bradley Bozeman, there is absolutely no doubt he earned himself a lucrative contract extension. The veteran center made a huge difference when installed into the starting lineup and the impact made across the community is another strong indicator of his selfless character despite signing a one-year deal in 2021 free agency.
Every team needs a leader like Bozeman. A focused, friendly, and highly-motivated individual that goes above and beyond to make others around him better.
Bozeman’s transition into the No. 1 spot after Pat Elflein’s serious injury was seamless. In 680 offensive snaps, the former Alabama standout conceded four penalties and gave up two sacks en route to a creditable 63.1 grade from Pro Football Focus, which was just a small part of what he contributed on and off the field.
Extending Bozeman should be among the top priorities this offseason. Something that becomes increasingly likely after the Carolina Panthers retained offensive line coach James Campen after a sensational first season with the franchise.
However, things are not always that simple. Bozeman’s is projected to command around $12 million annually according to Spotrac, which the Panthers might not be able to afford all things considered.
Cory Littleton – Carolina Panthers LB
As stated previously, it would be a big surprise if significant turnover didn’t transpire within the linebacker room this offseason. Only Frankie Luvu is guaranteed to start the 2023 campaign after taking his starting chance with both hands, so a plan on how to progress this unit should be another high priority for those in power.
One player that faces an uncertain future is Cory Littleton. The free-agent signing from the Las Vegas Raiders flashed moments of quality on the rotation during 15 games – seven of which he started – but whether that’s enough for an extended stay under Frank Reich’s new coaching regime is another matter.
Littleton is a former Pro Bowler that thrives in coverage. His production was pretty decent overall – certainly compared to Damien Wilson and others – which is further reflected in his 72.2 grade from Pro Football Focus as a result of his efforts.
Whether Littleton fancies sticking around as a depth piece is the big question. The one-time Washington college standout might fancy his chances of making a starting lineup elsewhere, which is entirely possible based on his sample size in Carolina.
Ideally, Littleton is another that can stick around on a short-term arrangement. But nobody could say that with any certainty right now.
D’Onta Foreman – Carolina Panthers RB
Even though Frank Reich is an offensive-minded head coach that knows the benefits of an exceptional passing game, the newly appointed figurehead is also fully aware of how important a strong running game is. Something the Carolina Panthers had last season thanks in no small part to D’Onta Foreman‘s outstanding performance levels.
When Christian McCaffrey was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, things looked bleak. Instead of rolling over and accepting their fate, Carolina put together a committee-running attack that looked among the league’s best at times.
Foreman was a pivotal part of this, punishing defenses with a ferocious style that overwhelmed most opposition. Based on Reich’s comments during his introductory press conference, it’s something he’d like to continue moving forward.
"“It’s a passing league, but you have to run the ball to be a championship team. There’s exceptions to that, but when you look at the analytics, the statistics over the years, you’ve got to be effective running the football and efficient running the football. So that’s one of the reasons I’m excited about this roster.”"
Again, this all comes down to money.
If Foreman’s representatives ask for too much, then the Panthers could examine alternatives capable of making a similar impact. Perhaps via a talented college prospect once other key needs are met.