The quarterback conundrum continues for the Carolina Panthers, who may finally be on the verge of an answer come April 27. But are there any options worth a look before then?
Here are four free-agent passers the Panthers should consider this offseason.
1
Lamar Jackson
We already know the Panthers won’t be in on Jackson—probably because they’re not too excited over a fully-guaranteed mega contract at the moment. (Or maybe it has something to do with a word that rhymes with “delusion.”)
Either way, there should be no reason Carolina is out—let alone this early—on a former unanimous Most Valuable Player . . . who just turned 26 years old in January. Plus, with the non-exclusive tag, all they’d need to relinquish for the most electrifying quarterback in the game, besides that new deal, are two first-round draft picks.
2
Jacoby Brissett
Since the Panthers are already out on Jackson, at least for now, it seems like they’re very much invested in the draft-and-develop route. And if that’s the case, they’ll need a veteran to back up and help mentor the new kid—whomever that may be.
There are few, if any, better choices for head coach Frank Reich than Jacoby Brissett—who, in his own right, could help steer the ship if needed. The 30-year-old played three seasons under Reich in Indianapolis, having started each of his 15 games for the Colts in 2019.
3
Sam Darnold
Darnold isn’t the prototypical veteran presence, as the 25-year-old is still trying to figure out things for himself. But he figured out something this past season, and perhaps saving his NFL career in the process.
2018’s third overall pick was solid in closing out 2022 for Carolina, leading them to four wins over six starts while even orchestrating the league’s most efficient passing offense for the majority of the run. His familiarity and chemistry with his teammates should also work in his favor.
4
Cam Newton
Ok, hear me out . . .
If the Panthers—despite recent rumblings—risk it all for Anthony Richardson, then who better to tutor the raw and potent prospect than the man whose game he resembles most? Oh, and he just so happens to be Richardson’s childhood idol.
Yes, it’s a bit crazy to think Newton would return for a second time—especially after sitting out the entire 2022 campaign. But crazier things have happened . . . such as his return in 2021.
And maybe, just maybe, if you give Newton a full offseason to acclimate to an offense, he’d have the Panthers contending while Richardson cooks on the sideline.
