The Carolina Panthers, a team with a storied history and passionate fanbase, found themselves grappling with disappointing statistics and a variety of challenges last season. Ranked in the bottom half of the league for rushing yards with 1,769 yards, the Panthers also battled to achieve an average of just 4 yards per carry. Even more concerning were their league-low seven rushing touchdowns, a statistic that showcased the offense's struggle to find rhythm and consistency on the ground.
Passing game woes compounded the Panthers' offensive struggles. The team was dead last in passing yards, recording a mere 3,245 yards. Alongside this, they tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns with only 13. The passing first-down percentage was a league-worst at 25.6%, underlining the difficulties the Panthers faced in maintaining possession and moving the chains.
The pressure on quarterback Bryce Young was palpable throughout his rookie season. Young ended the season with a dismal 2-15 record, an outcome that can't solely be placed on his shoulders. The offensive line allowed the second-most sacks in the league with 65, giving Young minimal time to make plays and further hindering the passing attack.
Despite these grim statistics, rookie head coach Dave Canales remains optimistic about the team's future. Canales views the offseason moves as crucial to establishing a more effective ground game. "That's what this draft and this offseason was all about. I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up. It helps third down, it helps move the ball and give you more opportunities," Canales stated. His focus is clearly on revitalizing the Panthers' run game, which he believes to be the foundation of a successful offense. "It all starts with the run game," Canales reiterated.
The offseason saw strategic acquisitions and draft picks aimed at bolstering the offensive line and running back department. The Panthers drafted running back Jonathon Brooks and signed guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, signaling their intent to fortify the offensive line and enhance their ground attack. This infusion of talent provides a glimmer of hope for a more balanced and effective offense in the upcoming season.
Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, who led the team in rushing yards last season, will be relied upon heavily to carry the bulk of the rushing load. Sanders, in particular, is expected to make significant contributions if the offensive line can improve and provide him with the necessary lanes to exploit.
The Panthers' ability to turn these changes into tangible results on the field will determine their trajectory in the forthcoming season. With an emphasis on the run game, improved protection for Bryce Young, and the strategic moves made during the offseason, Canales and his coaching staff face a critical task in reshaping a struggling offense.
In conclusion, the Panthers' offseason activity has set the stage for a potential turnaround. However, the real test will come when these plans are put into action. If the pieces fall into place, Canales' vision of a run-centric offense that opens up the entire playbook might just be what the Panthers need to climb out of their current doldrums.