Predicting the Carolina Panthers quarterback room for 2023 OTAs
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could draft C.J. Stroud
Although the temptation to trade for a veteran quarterback is there, the Carolina Panthers have been stung by this approach before. Something that played a significant role in Matt Rhule getting the boot after just five games in 2022.
General manager Scott Fitterer has preached the importance of drafting and developing a franchise quarterback. This also allows the Panthers to build around a rookie contract in pursuit of playoff contention.
Acquiring their top prospect from No. 9 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft will be difficult. However, all signs point to those in power making a daring move up the pecking order.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Chicago Bears plan to shop the first pick due to Justin Fields’ encouraging sophomore development. So this is a situation worth monitoring for Panthers fans in the coming weeks.
The compensation will be substantial. But the Panthers might never get a better opportunity to seize control of the NFC South after Tom Brady officially confirmed his retirement this week.
If its scenario comes to fruition, then C.J. Stroud might be their guy. The Ohio State product is mobile, accurate, and has the necessary poise to start right out of the gate with a smooth transition into Frank Reich’s scheme.
Stroud has all the makings of a franchise quarterback. One that can continue breaking the mold of former Buckeyes’ signal-callers that fail to make a legitimate NFL impression.
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