4 draft gambles the Carolina Panthers could make in 2023

Carolina Panthers could draft Anthony Richardson

Should the Carolina Panthers decide to keep their draft assets rather than take a leap up the pecking order, there is one obvious candidate capable of becoming their future franchise quarterback.

Anthony Richardson.

Much like Will Levis, expecting Richardson to step in and start right away would be pushing it. However, the Florida product could have the highest ceiling of any signal-caller entering the NFL this year and it might not take him that long to fully get up to speed.

Richardson’s electrifying dual-threat ability, impressive arm strength, and ongoing progress when it comes to field recognition could make him a coveted prospect. He’s sure to turn heads at the NFL Scouting Combine and the Gators’ pro day, but the development over his first season of prolonged starting reps is arguably more important.

This is a gamble that might not work out. But in all honesty, one could say that about most draft picks that don’t have generational upside such as Trevor Lawrence or Andrew Luck.

And even then, everything must go right during their early development.

It’s one of the more fascinating drafts in franchise history. Frank Reich’s done his part by forming a comprehensive coaching staff loaded with potential and legitimate NFL experience, but this is just the start of what can hopefully be a successful offseason in Carolina.