Carolina's Biggest Needs Heading Into Free Agency
Next week marks the start of free agency and the Carolina Panthers have several holes to fill, mainly on the offensive side of the ball.
To get a closer look at what the Panthers specifically need, we look at the five positions this roster needs to upgrade the most - in no specific order.
Wide Receiver
This one is pretty obvious, huh? Adam Thielen had an incredible year in which he recorded 100+ receptions and 1,000+ yards, marking just the second time he's accomplished that feat in his career. The problem is, he's entering his age 34 season and shouldn't be the primary option. Carolina may double dip in free agency AND draft a receiver or vise versa.
Tight End
Since the day Greg Olsen was let go, the Panthers haven't had much hope at the tight end position. Hayden Hurst figured to be the solution, but after catching a touchdown in Week 1, he never played up to his potential, ultimately leading to his pending release. Giving Bryce Young a reliable option over the middle of the field will help the pass game immensely.
Guard
If healthy, I imagine Austin Corbett will remain as the starter at right guard. However, it wouldn't hurt to add some competition and have a contingency plan in place incase the knees can't hold up for a third straight season. More so, this is about the left guard spot. The Panthers could shift Bradley Bozeman over from center or they could go out and sign a veteran/draft a guard high. Regardless of how they go about it, they must fix this spot and it may be the number one priority.
Edge Rusher
The main concern here is the future of Brian Burns. Will he be a Panther in 2024? Even if he is, it would really benefit Carolina to go out and get a quality rusher to lineup opposite of him. I doubt they'll spend big money or find a hidden gem like they did a few years back like Haason Reddick but having to deal with Burns, Derrick Brown, and someone else is a lot to ask for an o-line.
Cornerback
The corner position has been a bit of a sore spot for the Panthers over the years. Whether it be due to the injuries of Jaycee Horn and Donte Jackson or just the pure lack of quality depth. This was always going to be a position they added to, but with Jackson set to play elsewhere they have no choice but to go out and sign a veteran to pair with Horn.
