4 easy decisions the Carolina Panthers can make in 2023 free agency

What easy decisions could the Carolina Panthers make during the upcoming 2023 free-agency period?

There are a number of critical decisions awaiting the Carolina Panthers both before and during free agency. Frank Reich and David Tepper have done their part by molding an elite-caliber coaching staff, which makes general manager Scott Fitterer‘s job even more important in terms of playing personnel moves ahead of the 2023 campaign.

This is Fitterer’s chance to prove beyond all doubt that Matt Rhule was the problem. It’s his first offseason with the final say on roster decisions, although there will be significant input from elsewhere as the Panthers move forward with a more cohesive recruitment process.

Money is tight despite restructuring Austin Corbett’s contract to save almost $6 million. Further measures are obviously coming, but Reich’s ability to find the best coaches money can buy makes Carolina an attractive destination for veterans all things considered.

The hard work starts now for Fitterer. With this in mind, here are four easy decisions the Panthers can make in 2023 free agency.

Easy Decision No. 1

Carolina Panthers must retain Sam Franklin

Having a productive special teams unit is something the Carolina Panthers benefitted from enormously in 2022. Chris Tabor’s appointment transformed the team’s fortunes, so keeping him around under Frank Reich was absolutely imperative to maintain or perhaps even enhance momentum.

For Tabor to accomplish this, retaining Sam Franklin is a must. The former undrafted free agent out of Temple has carved out a decent role for himself as a core special teamer, so extending him long-term is something that could bear fruit.