Should the Carolina Panthers pursue Brian Johnson as OC in 2023?
By Ricky Raines
Brian Johnson’s NFL emergence
Developing a player into the best version of themselves, specifically at quarterback, should be viewed as one of Brian Johnson’s calling cards. The Philadelphia Eagles and Jalen Hurts’ success this season provides a perfect case study to support that notion.
Philadelphia deploys one of the best offensive lines in football. They also made a major offseason move by acquiring wide receiver A.J. Brown via trade from the Tennessee Titans.
Despite this, Johnson’s work with Hurts cannot be overlooked by the Carolina Panthers or any other interested party.
In 2021, Hurts threw for 3,144 passing yards and 16 touchdowns with nine interceptions at a 61.3 percent completion percentage. He added 784 rushing yards and 10 more scores, as his mobility and running talent were the top aspects of his game.
This season, Hurts threw for 3,701 yards with 22 touchdowns and 6 picks, completing 66.5 percent of his passes. He ran for 760 yards and 13 scores.
Both the 2021 and 2022 stats were accumulated during 15 games. So a direct comparison can easily be made. The metrics show refinement in how Hurts approached the quarterback position this season, producing more results with a lower turnover total and better efficiency.
These are great indicators of the preparation and understanding of the offense that Hurts gained under Johnson. Something that could end with a ring when it’s all said and done.