Which rumors emerged surrounding the Carolina Panthers during what turned out to be another fascinating week at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine?
The Carolina Panthers have concluded their obligations at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. But the hard work starts now for those in power as they look to put the right foundations in place for a successful first campaign under new head coach Frank Reich.
As expected, it was a thought-provoking week in Indianapolis. The speculation was swirling and prospects came to the fore in pursuit of getting themselves higher up the draft pecking order when the time comes.
Reich and general manager Scott Fitterer didn’t give too much away during their media availability. But that didn’t stop reporters from gaining some notable tidbits from conversations with those around the league and within the organization itself.
With this in mind, here are four Panthers rumors that emerged from the NFL Scouting Combine in 2023.
Rumor No. 1
Carolina Panthers have eyes on Bijan Robinson
If the Carolina Panthers don’t trade up for a quarterback – which does seem unlikely – a rumored contingency plan was discussed by Charlie Campbell of WalterFootball.com. The analyst – citing sources – indicated that the Carolina Panthers are high on running back Bijan Robinson in the event all four top signal-callers are off the board.
This makes no sense and quite frankly, it’s a luxury Carolina doesn’t have right now considering their needs elsewhere. Robinson is going to be a stud, but the Panthers are unlikely to draft a running back with such a high-end pick.
Carolina Panthers want another stud TE
One of the primary needs on offense is getting better pass-catching from the tight end position. The Carolina Panthers haven’t yet replaced Greg Olsen effectively after letting the Pro Bowler leave in 2020 free agency, which is far too long to be without consistent production at a position that’s become the hallmark of any leading contender in recent history.
The Panthers have the capital to make a big splash early in the draft. Although much will depend on how much they have to give up if they want to surge up the board for a franchise quarterback.
According to Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer, the Panthers will be aggressive in their quest to find a college tight-end or productive veteran on the free-agent market based on discussions he’s had at the NFL Scouting Combine.
This will be welcome news for fans who have grown weary of underperforming pass-catcher like Ian Thomas. Even if his blocking is among the league’s best among tight ends.
Darnell Washington was head and shoulders above any other tight end in Indianapolis. His unique blend of size and athleticism was matched by eye-catching ball skills, which surprised many who envisaged this element of his game to be a major work in progress.
Others will also come under consideration within a strong tight-end class in 2023. Something that would help smooth a rookie quarterback’s transition along the way.
Carolina Panthers behind in Derek Carr sweepstakes
It wasn’t just college prospects that hogged the headlines this week. Derek Carr‘s presence at the NFL Scouting Combine was another fascinating element to the equation, with the veteran free-agent quarterback meeting with the Carolina Panthers early in the week – which team owner David Tepper traveled to attend.
Carr – who is also drawing interest from the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints – is scheduled to speak with the Panthers again on Monday via telephone. A move that would cripple their salary cap and cause friction among the fanbase for good measure.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Carr is slightly leaning toward the Jets right now. Nothing is confirmed one way or another, but it appears as if the Panthers are behind if their interest is legitimate.
"“While the Panthers and Saints remain in the conversation for Derek Carr, the former Pro Bowl quarterback has a slight lean toward the #Jets as his next home as of now, per source. Nothing is final, but Jets — who are linked to Aaron Rodgers — have made an impression.”"
Losing Carr would be a blessing in disguise, in all honesty. While the Pro Bowler could get a new lease of life following his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders, the Panthers have been stung plenty with suspect veteran moves in recent years and cannot afford to make the same mistakes again.
Carolina Panthers will aggressively seek QB trade-up
It’s no secret to fans or those around the league what the biggest priority for the Carolina Panthers is this offseason. They must find a stable, long-term option at the quarterback position.
This might be tricky from No. 9 overall – especially considering the phenomenal performance of Anthony Richardson at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. Therefore, going bold with a surge up the pecking order is the only way Carolina will guarantee its chosen prospect.
The notion was seconded by Dan Graziano of ESPN, who spoke with plenty of people in Indianapolis who think the Panthers will be extremely aggressive in their quest to get one of the blue-chip signal-callers emerging from the college ranks this spring.
"“If you’re looking for a team in the top 10 of the draft that could trade up to take a quarterback, keep an eye on the Panthers. They pick at No. 9, right behind the Atlanta Falcons and Raiders, both of whom could be thinking QB there. And many people I spoke with in Indy expect the Panthers to be aggressive in their efforts to move up and secure their franchise QB.”"
This is the time for Carolina to strike with conviction. They cannot afford to wait and see what happens in front of them – so coming to a general consensus and sacrificing future draft assets is of paramount importance.
Who the Panthers choose is the big question. But it would deeply disappointing if C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young, Anthony Richardson, or Will Levis weren’t part of the set-up once the draft concludes.