What are the best partnerships that the Carolina Panthers hope to benefit from during their first campaign under new head coach Frank Reich in 2023?
If the Carolina Panthers want to meet increased expectations after the most dramatic offseason filled with positive changes across the franchise, it has to be a collective effort. Everyone from top to bottom must come together as a cohesive unit, which will make a massive difference in Frank Reich's quest to lift the NFC South championship at the first time of asking.
Individuals looking out for themselves with no accountability won't cut it anymore. The Panthers are moving forward with a collaborative ethos and returning the franchise to its fabric - something that was lost under the old regime as Matt Rhule thought it was a good idea to bring a college ethos to a professional NFL organization.
That's in the past. What's important for the Panthers is enhancing the newfound team spirit at camp and executing effectively when the regular season arrives with the division seemingly up for grabs.
Looking at the current depth chart, we picked out the three best partnerships on the Panthers heading into the 2023 campaign.
Xavier Woods and Vonn Bell - Carolina Panthers safeties
Having a solid backend presence within Ejiro Evero's 3-4 base defense will provide security and communication if everything goes well. Although they have yet to play a competitive down together, hopes are high that Xavier Woods and Vonn Bell can flourish together in 2023.
Woods enjoyed a good first season with the Carolina Panthers, improving organization pre-snap and being around the football consistently. Having a capable performer alongside him in the form of Vonn Bell should also help after he joined Frank Reiich's ambitious project in free agency on a three-year deal.
Couple this with the potential for Jeremy Chinn to be implemented as a third safety depending on the situation, and this looks like an especially strong unit. Even if the same cannot be said of Carolina's cornerbacks unless some serious concerns are alleviated.
Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton - Carolina Panthers OTs
It's been years since the Carolina Panthers had a prolific bookend tackle tandem. There have been very few pairings that warrant this distinction throughout franchise history, but Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton represent hope for a prosperous future.
Moton has been a model of consistency since entering the league as a second-round selection in 2017. He stays healthy, rarely gets flustered under extreme pressure, and is assuming leadership responsibilities within the locker room to further enhance his increasing influence.
The former Western Michigan star's production was not matched by the revolving door on the blindside in recent years. That all changed when the Panthers selected Ekwonu at No. 6 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft - who was the best player on their board.
Ekwonu was baptized by Myles Garrett in Week 1 and struggled against the New York Giants during his second professional contest. However, the North Carolina State product was exceptional after some early jitters and is only going to get better with this experience under his belt.
Having a stable edge to protect rookie quarterback Bryce Young is going to be crucial for his transition. Much has been made about the signal-caller's durability concerns, but the Heisman Trophy winner can relax safe in the knowledge he'll get the time needed in the pocket to make things happen.
Shaq Thompson and Frankie Luvu - Carolina Panthers LBs
The Carolina Panthers have prided themselves on exceptional linebacking production throughout franchise history. While that was lost in the immediate aftermath of Luke Kuechly's retirement, there were signs of life over the second half of 2022 and more might be on the way within Ejiro Evero's 3-4 base defense.
It'll take some significant adjustments. But with an inside tandem of Shaq Thompson and Frankie Luvu, the recipe for success is there for all to see if everyone gets on board with a new, expansive scheme.
Thompson agreed to restructure and extend his deal to remain around, which will be an outstanding benefit to Carolina at an important period of change. Putting the experienced veteran next to an explosive difference-maker like Luvu comes with untold potential given how their respective skills can mesh well under Evero's guidance.
Expect to see Thompson and Luvu flying around the field with almost reckless abandon. Both players have the ability to inspire those around them, so a strong start from Carolina's second-level duo can have a ripple effect on the entire defense with some early momentum.
The Panthers are expecting big things from this particular pairing. If certain targets are met, then it's all systems go for a young defensive unit that looks right on the cusp of greatness.