Panthers Sit Atop SI's NFC South Offseason Report Cards

It's been a strong offseason in Charlotte.

Over the last couple of offseasons, the Panthers put an emphasis on the nuts and bolts of the roster, building through the trenches and revamping the defense. This offseason, GM Scott Fitterer made some more flashy moves by jumping eight spots in the draft to nab QB Bryce Young and added several playmakers via free agency.

Now, the Panthers' roster looks like it's ready to compete for not only a division title but much more. Just how good did Fitterer and Co. do this offseason?

Here are the final offseason grades for the NFC South by Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated:

Atlanta Falcons: B

Carolina Panthers: B+

New Orleans Saints: C

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: C-

Manzano's thoughts on the Panthers:

"After a busy free agency, the Panthers might have added the final piece to their rapid rebuild with Young, the No. 1 pick known for reading defenses and extending plays. Carolina made it a priority to return its entire starting offensive line from last season, re-signing former Baltimore center Bradley Bozeman, who impressed the team in 2022 after agreeing to a one-year contract. The Panthers added new faces to the skill positions, too. An offensive trio of Sanders, Thielen, and Hurst might not strike fear in opposing defenses, but it’s enough to make Young comfortable throughout his rookie season. Chark will provide speed for the receiving corps, and perhaps Mingo, the promising second-round pick, will develop into the No. 1 option by the end of the season. Carolina also built around its defensive core of Brian Burns, Derrick Brown, and Jaycee Horn by adding Tuttle, Bell, and Johnson."

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