Carolina Panthers’ Offseason Strategy Gets Brutal Reality Check from NFL Executive
The Carolina Panthers are looking to rebuild with a long-term vision, and General Manager Dan Morgan has been working tirelessly to strengthen the team during this offseason. Morgan’s approach has been clear from the start: revamp the defense and ensure quarterback Bryce Young has the tools to succeed. While the plan seemed promising, an assessment from a well-placed NFL executive has offered a sobering reality check that could shape the Panthers’ future.
Morgan’s strategy has focused heavily on enhancing the defense, which struggled historically last season. The Panthers aimed to give defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero a stronger roster, removing any excuses for underperformance. Morgan’s moves in free agency reflected this goal, with the general manager acquiring key defensive players to bolster the squad. Despite some slight adjustments along the way, the frenzy of the offseason seemed to have provided the pieces Morgan was looking for.
However, one NFL executive wasn’t as optimistic about the Panthers’ approach, offering a less flattering take. According to this executive, while the Panthers’ defense has been upgraded, the strategy may have overlooked important needs on the offensive side of the ball. Morgan’s decision to not make major changes to the offensive skill positions could be seen as a gamble, especially with the team’s ongoing evaluation of Bryce Young at quarterback.
Morgan is working with a long-term plan in mind, and his focus during this first offseason has been about creating a more competitive team overall. He is hopeful that this strategy will provide the clarity needed to fully assess Young’s potential. However, there’s a clear risk in not adding more offensive talent, especially with the Panthers’ upcoming nine draft picks in 2025 that could offer opportunities for improvement on that front.
As the Panthers move forward, Morgan’s belief in his strategy will be tested. While Young may benefit from a stronger defense, the team will need players like Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker to take significant steps forward for the offense to truly flourish. The question now is whether Morgan’s long-term plan will pay off or if his risky moves could stall the Panthers’ progress in the coming season.