The Carolina Panthers saw an end of an era this past season as two of the cornerstone pieces to their success in the 2010s wasn't in the team by the end of the season. Cam Newton and Ron Rivera are beloved figures in Carolina, but the team had to move on and get new blood flowing into their team.
Christian McCaffrey should still be able to do well on his own, but it's very unlikely that he can carry an offense all on his own. The Panthers' front office needs to bring in some offensive talent to refresh the squad's attack options. Here are the three vital positions they need to fill up.
Quarterback
This is the most obvious position that needs to be filled. The Panthers were built like a passing team through the years, and Newton's absence was truly felt by the entire team. Last season, they were 20th in total passing yards and the second-worst team on passing touchdowns, just one over 7-9 Denver Broncos. The Carolina quarterbacks also combined for 21 interceptions, the second-highest in the league.
They can simply relegate the duties of carrying the offense to McCaffrey, but the team's 5-11 record makes it crystal clear that they need a quarterback in order to play better. Kyle Allen just isn't good enough to hold a starting spot for the Panthers.
There are quite a number of respectable quarterbacks in free agency. They can gun for Philip Rivers or Jameis Winston to take over the offense if they don't try to join in the Tom Brady sweepstakes. However, the draft also has quite a number of competent quarterbacks that they can choose from. If they choose to go this route, then Justin Herbert is a likely selection for them.
Offensive Tackle
Another reason why the Panthers offense didn't click this season was the offensive line. The O-line didn't give Allen or McCaffrey much room to operate this season. The line was often overrun during games, leading the league in sacks allowed at 58.
There are a couple of upcoming free agents that they can acquire to boost their O-line. If they find Andrew Whitworth too expensive, they can go for the likes of Kevin Beachum, Bryan Bulaga, and Greg Robinson.
In the draft, Georgia's Andrew Thomas and Louisville's Mekhi Becton are considered the top tackles in their class.
Tight End
Another issue that the Panthers need to address is their tight end situation. Greg Olsen was doing a solid job for Carolina with his 597 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 52 receptions, but the two sides mutually agreed to part ways. Moreover, they need a much better performance from the tight end spot if they want their passing game to improve.
Hunter Henry, Darren Fells, and Austin Hooper are quality tight ends in free agency that they can go for. If they would prefer to go to the draft, then they can burn their second- or third-round picks on Cole Kmet and Thaddeus Moss.
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