4 worst-case scenarios for the Carolina Panthers 2023 offseason

Carolina Panthers miss on their franchise QB

Now that the coaching staff is taking shape, the Carolina Panthers need to find a franchise quarterback. Whether that’s through the 2023 NFL Draft, free agency, or another daring trade is the big question.

Looking at previous mistakes, going down the draft route is more likely. Although if team owner David Tepper wants to make a bigger splash, then pushing all his chips into the middle for Lamar Jackson cannot be ruled out.

Whichever way those in power decide to go, it’s a decision they must get right.

If the Panthers miss on their next signal-caller, one has to suspect it might be Scott Fitterer’s last chance to solve this ongoing, complex riddle.

Going up for someone like C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young is well within Carolina’s capabilities. And the compensation would be of little concern to the front office if they genuinely believe the correct prospect is atop their draft board.

Carolina has a talented young roster capable of making progress with Frank Reich leading the charge. Therefore, finding a quarterback capable of turning this once-proud organization around is critical.

Anything less is going to overcomplicate matters. Especially as the NFC South is there for the taking.