Which former Frank Reich players could end up following the newly appointed head coach to the Carolina Panthers in 2023?
Frank Reich‘s appointment as head coach was met with widespread approval despite the obvious sense of dismay surrounding Steve Wilks. The interim did everything he could to win the job long-term, but those in power felt an offensive direction was needed for the first time in franchise history.
That’s disappointing – especially for Wilks. But the Panthers need to get with the times and Reich’s experience leading productive NFL offenses coupled with his leadership qualities make this an intriguing hire with high potential.
Reich commands instant respect. Players and coaches have nothing but praise for his approach, which was hindered by some suspect personnel moves at the quarterback position over his final years with the Indianapolis Colts.
Even though general manager Scott Fitterer is in charge of personnel, Reich will have a leading voice in recruitment. Something that could lead these five players to reunite with their former head coach in 2023.
Player No. 1
Carolina Panthers could sign Marlon Mack
There was a lot to like about the Carolina Panthers’ rushing attack in 2022. Trading Christian McCaffrey seemingly brought the best out of them, with D’Onta Foreman and Chuba Hubbard forming a one-two tandem that caused endless problems for opposing defenses.
Foreman is out of contract and may not return. If the player and the Panthers go their separate ways, Marlon Mack has a similar physique and knows Frank Reich’s system from their time together with the Colts.
Mack might have regressed into an afterthought in recent years. But he played his best football under Reich and this is unlikely to cost the earth, which also helps the cash-strapped Panthers.
Carolina Panthers could sign Bobby Okereke
It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers are set to make big changes across their roster. This bears more significance within the linebacking room, which could see plenty of comings and goings before it’s time to suit up in 2023.
Damien Wilson is a prime cut candidate, Cory Littleton is out of contract, and Shaq Thompson might be a cap casualty via release or trade. Only Frankie Luvu is guaranteed a lofty role next season, so finding solutions at the second level is another important priority for the Panthers this spring.
Replacing legendary linebacker Luke Kuechly has been an impossible task since his shock retirement after the 2019 campaign. If Frank Reich has any influence whatsoever, he’ll inform general manager Scott Fitterer all about the exciting attributes Bobby Okereke brings to the table.
Okereke sometimes gets lost in terms of the limelight behind All-Pro Darius Leonard. But that does not detract from what an exceptional talent he’s become in a relatively short space of time.
The former third-round selection logged a whopping 151 tackles last season and was unfortunate not to earn Pro Bowl honors. One suspects the Indianapolis Colts will look to extend the player or perhaps even utilize the franchise tag, but if he’s allowed to leave Carolina should be all over it.
This could be the difference maker at middle linebacker the team’s been craving since Kuechly hung up his cleats. Whether Okereke becomes available or not is the big question.
Carolina Panthers could sign Yannick Ngakoue
Another area the Carolina Panthers need to strengthen this offseason is their pass rush opposite Brian Burns. The departure of Haason Reddick left a gaping hole that Yetur Gross-Matos was unable to fill, so finding alternatives with proven production in free agency or from the college ranks is almost guaranteed.
Obviously, going to the draft route represents the cheapest option. However, if the Panthers free up enough funds to go after a marquee veteran, then Yannick Ngakoue is someone to monitor.
The explosive edge defender signed for the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 after a standout campaign with the Las Vegas Raiders. This was exactly what the player needed after things went sour quickly on the Minnesota Vikings and his previous connection to Frank Reich could work in Carolina’s favor if he’s identified as someone of interest.
Ngakoue has a lot of good football left at 27 years old and already has 65 career sacks to his name. The benefits of bringing the one-time Maryland star to Carolina are evident, but finances could prevent such a move from coming off when push comes to shove.
According to Sporac, Ngakoue is expected to command $14.8 million annually on a four-year, $59.24 million deal. Considering the deep class of edge rushers entering the 2023 NFL Draft, the Panthers might look the other way unless a team-friendly deal can be secured.
Carolina Panthers could sign Jacoby Brissett
Until the Carolina Panthers get things right at the quarterback position, it will be difficult to make any sort of playoff bid. Frank Reich knows this all too well from a series of floundering moves by the Indianapolis Colts front office, so he won’t want something similar occurring in a different environment.
General manager Scott Fitterer outlined his intent to land their signal-caller of choice. His preference to draft and develop around a rookie contract means a bold trade-up from No. 9 overall cannot be dismissed, but the Panthers might need a veteran bridge to shoulder some short-term responsibility alongside a rookie from the college ranks.
While the prospect of Sam Darnold returning increased after his improvements over the second half of 2022, hitting the reset button is preferred. And there is nobody more reliable on the free-agent market this offseason than Jacoby Brissett.
Seen as a journeyman by most, Brissett performed well for the Cleveland Browns in 2022 filling in for the suspended Deshaun Watson. He is an efficient distributor, is an impressive leader, and also boasts eye-catching athleticism to make waves running out of the backfield.
Brissett worked with Reich on the Indianapolis Colts, so transitioning back to his scheme should be relatively straightforward. This makes a ton of sense, but the veteran might seek assurances of playing time Carolina couldn’t guarantee if they managed to get their hands on Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud.
Carolina Panthers could sign Parris Campbell
Making improvements to the skill positions is going to benefit the Carolina Panthers and their new quarterback – whoever that might be – during the 2023 season. D.J. Moore and Terrace Marshall Jr. should lead the charge, but the prospects of Shi Smith and Laviska Shenault Jr. are less certain despite both flashing on occasions last time around.
Frank Reich likes to get the ball moving quickly downfield as part of a balanced attack. This is something the Panthers couldn’t do effectively last season thanks in no small part to the inconsistent quarterback play that held the team back considerably throughout Matt Rhule’s inept tenure.
If Reich wants to hit the ground running, bringing in players that know the system would be wise. Parris Campbell worked with the coach previously and is coming off a career year with the Indianapolis Colts en route to 63 receptions for 623 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
While Campbell doesn’t have blazing speed, he represents a solid slot option. This is exactly what the Panthers need to complement the outside tandem of Moore and Marshall.
Bringing in former loyalists didn’t exactly do Rhule any favors aside from Haason Reddick and Matt Ioannidis. There needs to be balance, but it’s hard to look at Campbell and not think he couldn’t make a leading contribution if the Panthers secured his services.