The Panthers GM made a lot of changes to the offensive side of the football this offseason, starting with new QB Sam Darnold, who is a 4-year veteran. Even though, on paper, it looks like a solid offense, there are questions the Panthers should be asking themselves.
1. Is Sam Darnold that much better than Teddy Bridgewater? The Panthers have made changes on both sides of the football. Teddy Bridgewater had some injuries which limited his play and was not on the same page as coach Matt Rhule. Sam Darnold’s talent has never been questioned, but he needs to limit mistakes and turnovers. If he’s able to take care of the football, the Panthers can have a winning record this season. If not, it could be the same result as last year, 5-11.
2. Who will replace LT Russell Okung? The Panthers have uncertainty at the left tackle position. The fact that they had Taylor Moton take some snaps at the LT position shows how limited they are at this key spot. The Panthers will have to play it by committee and have several players step up. One of them will have to take the reins and protect Darnold.
3. How many touches should RB Christian McCaffrey receive? The Panthers have an all-purpose back who can run and catch the football in Christian McCaffrey. Because of his injury history, his workload may have to be limited. Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady will have to use his best player more efficiently to preserve him.
4. In Year 2, will OC Joe Brady show improvement? The person with the most pressure as far as the offense is concerned is OC Joe Brady. He became too predictable on first downs and calling too many running plays. In order for the Panthers to be successful, he will have to correct his errors and find an offense that works for this group of players.
5. Which receiver is best suited for the outside? With Curtis Samuel gone from the team, it will be interesting how the offensive dynamics will work. Brady and Darnold need to decide the best receiver to line-up in the slot position. There are a few players that could be in the running for the spot. D.J. Moore has always stood out even though he hasn’t had a lot of time or reps at the position.
6. Who should be the teams’ top red zone target? The Panthers moved the ball down the field with regularity last year, but they had trouble finishing drives off with touchdowns. Part of the problem was Brady and Bridgewater, but the even bigger issue was the lack of big targets to throw the football to. The Panthers were able to get two players who could assist the team in scoring touchdowns instead of settling for field goals. TE Dan Arnold and WR Terrace Marshall Jr. will be a welcomed addition to the organization. The Panthers also have Omar Bayless, who sat out the entire 2020 season due to injuries. They have to find a lead TE to take the pressure off the receivers.
If the Panthers are able to address these concerns, they have a chance at the NFC playoffs.
