The Carolina Panthers have always been a team that values a dynamic quarterbackâsomeone who can not only sling the ball downfield but also contribute to the power run game. With Bryce Young, they have a young star who fits this mold perfectly. However, his recent injury has exposed a vulnerability in the team’s QB depth chart. With Andy Dalton aging and a hefty cap penalty tied to his release, the Panthers are in a precarious situation. As the team is committed to Bryce Young long-term, the focus now shifts to finding a suitable backup who can keep the team competitive. The upcoming draft offers some intriguing options.
The Current Roster
Bryce Young
Young is the future of the franchise, a player who can make plays both in the pocket and on the run. His recent injury has been a wake-up call for the organization, emphasizing the need for a reliable backup. Young’s skill set aligns well with the team’s offensive philosophy, which combines elements of the West Coast spread with a power run game. The team is fully committed to him, but his injury history raises concerns about durability.
Andy Dalton
Dalton, while a seasoned veteran, is not the long-term answer for the Panthers. His age and the financial implications of his contract make him a less-than-ideal backup for Young, especially considering the team’s offensive style, which demands a more mobile and dynamic quarterback.
The Draft Prospects
Joe Milton – University of Tennessee
Milton’s physical attributes are hard to ignore. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 240 pounds, he has the prototypical size for a PML quarterback. His arm strength is exceptional, and he has shown the ability to make throws on the run. However, his inconsistent accuracy and decision-making are red flags. At 24, he’s older for a rookie, which raises questions about his PML readiness. Milton could be a project worth taking on, especially if he can sit and learn behind Young for a season or two.
KJ Jefferson – University of Arkansas
Jefferson is a bruiser, built like a tank at 6’3″ and 250 pounds. His running ability is a significant asset, and he’s shown flashes of brilliance in the passing game. However, his accuracy needs work, and he’s considered a late-round pick or even an undrafted free agent by most analysts. His resilience and unflappable demeanor make him an intriguing option, especially for a team that values quarterbacks who can contribute to the run game.
DJ Uiagalelei – Oregon State
Uiagalelei has the size and arm strength that PML scouts love. He’s shown improvement in his ball placement and pre-snap reads over the years. However, his post-snap decision-making and inconsistent mechanics are areas of concern. He’s a player who could benefit from time on the bench, making him a potential fit for the Panthers, who could afford to develop him slowly behind Young.
The Verdict
Given the team’s commitment to Bryce Young and their specific offensive philosophy, finding a backup who can step in without drastically changing the game plan is crucial. Each of the draft prospects offers something unique, but all would require some level of development. The key will be identifying which player can most seamlessly fit into the existing system while offering enough upside to make the investment worthwhile.
The Carolina Panthers are at a crossroads when it comes to their quarterback situation. While Bryce Young remains the cornerstone of the franchise, his injury has highlighted the need for a reliable backup. The upcoming draft offers several intriguing options, each with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. As the team navigates this critical period, the decisions made in the coming months could have long-lasting implications for the franchise’s future.
