4 easy decisions the Carolina Panthers can make in 2023 free agency
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must extend D’Onta Foreman
Among the most difficult decisions facing the Carolina Panthers is how much money they can afford to pay D’Onta Foreman. The running back carried a heavy burden when Christian McCaffrey departed for the San Francisco 49ers before the trade deadline, which was a responsibility he was more than ready for based on the player’s production.
Foreman’s physical running style and ability to wear down defenses made him the lead-back quickly. Chuba Hubbard caught the eye when called upon, so keeping this one-two punch for Frank Reich and Thomas Brown to utilize next season comes with endless benefits.
Much will depend on how much money Foreman’s representatives demand on his next deal.
Scott Fitterer won’t want to overpay for a running back given how much dead-cap McCaffrey is costing the team next season. Therefore, some common ground must be reached between all parties in the coming weeks.
Assistant head coach/running backs coach Duce Staley wants Foreman to come back. But as the recent arrival pointed out during his introductory press conference, his surname isn’t Fitterer.
Foreman’s production in difficult circumstances last season warrants another go-around in 2023. Whether the Panthers can move enough money around to make this happen is another matter.