Examining the 3 largest Carolina Panthers scheduled cap hits in 2023
By Nick Halden
How could the three largest scheduled salary-cap hits impact the Carolina Panthers in 2023?
The Carolina Panthers are sitting at minus $7.7 million in salary-cap space and need to free up funds for impact moves. Considering the teams within their division and the restructures and cuts available, this task shouldn’t prove daunting for a franchise that is heading in the right direction.
The Panthers have generated plenty of positive headlines this offseason after assembling a star-studded coaching staff under Frank Reich. But they must find a starting quarterback to firmly enhance their credentials.
Unless Aaron Rodgers, Derek Carr, or Lamar Jackson land with the Panthers, it seems most likely the team will address the position through the draft. This saves cap space and gives them a bigger window in which to keep their veteran players and contend.
The uncertainty at the top of the draft leaves a clear possibility that the Panthers could trade up to target Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud. With Will Levis and Anthony Richardson also projected to go early, it is possible Carolina selects a signal-caller from No. 9 overall depending on how the draft board plays out.
Whichever direction they choose to go, the Panthers will have to make some tough moves – including possibly cutting some established stars. Ahead of this, we took an in-depth look at their three biggest salary-cap numbers in 2023 and what options they have with each.