Here we are at 1-7.
In this week's loss to the Denver Broncos, Bryce Young took center stage once again. While I believe he showed some improvement, it wasn’t enough, and it felt all too familiar based on recent performances. One thing we can say about Bryce is that he can take a hit; in just a year and a half in the NFL, he’s been sacked 72 times. Given Denver’s formidable defense, his stats were relatively solid: 24 completions on 37 attempts for 224 yards, with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Of course, the interceptions are a concern—they always are. The one positive takeaway from Bryce's day were a handful of truly impressive throws, but time is running out to prove that he can be our franchise quarterback.
So, What Now…?
As of October 29, 2024, the Carolina Panthers traded Diontae Johnson for what feels like a bag of chips and a drink. The Panthers shipped Diontae Johnson and a sixth round pick to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for a fifth round pick. Our content producer, Garrett, did the calculations: this trade is the equivalent of moving up three spots in the draft at this moment in time. There were reports that we had two other--worse--offers for Diontae, but I'm not quite sure how that could be possible. Moving up three spots in the late rounds in exchange for Diontae Johnson seems about as bad as it could get. Well, other than moving up two spots or one spot, I suppose.
I’m struggling to understand how you trade away your leading receiver in the middle of the season. Was Diontae never meant to stay, or were there behind-the-scenes locker room issues we’re unaware of? With Adam Thielen still out, our receiving corps now relies on two rookies—who I genuinely believe are capable of stepping up. The focus of our offense is now placed directly on standout rookies, Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker. I--and clearly the team--believes that they are capable of stepping up.
However, this wasn’t the plan for the team’s trajectory. We didn’t want to depend solely on young players, yet here we are. As I mentioned in my last article, Jalen Coker delivered exactly as I expected. He continues to shine as a bright spot in this struggling franchise! Coker recorded four receptions for a team-leading 78 yards, along with his first NFL touchdown. Additionally, Xavier Legette recorded his third touchdown reception of his rookie campaign this past weekend. I also have to highlight Shy Tuttle, who made an impact with 7 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles and a forced fumble.
So, here we are. This situation has reached its breaking point, and Tepper has extended it indefinitely. While this doesn't absolve Canales and his coaching staff from accountability, they need to improve and be better. The reality is we simply lack talent and depth, especially with so many players injured. As the season progresses, it's unclear how we can effectively address the team's ongoing struggles. My hope is that by allowing the rest of the season to unfold, we can identify the root issues that have plagued us. Only then can we start to formulate a plan to turn things around and get back on track.
Images: Panthers, Ravens, Panthers Pride
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