The Panthers are Expected to Sign a Vital Position with an Underrated NFL Free Agency
As the NFL offseason approaches, teams across the league are gearing up to make strategic moves that will help them compete in the coming season. For the Carolina Panthers, a team that has struggled in recent years to establish consistency, the upcoming free agency period presents a critical opportunity to bolster their roster. The Panthers are widely expected to target a vital position, one that could help elevate their performance and potentially restore them to playoff contention: the quarterback position.
Though many teams will be pursuing splashy signings in free agency, the Panthers are likely to focus on a more underrated and strategic acquisition—a quarterback who may not be the biggest name but who could provide stability, leadership, and the ability to elevate an offense that has sorely lacked consistency in recent seasons. While quarterback may not be the only position of need for Carolina, it is undoubtedly the most vital and could serve as the key to unlocking their potential in the near future.
The State of the Panthers’ Quarterback Situation
The Carolina Panthers have had a turbulent relationship with the quarterback position over the last few years. After the departure of franchise quarterback Cam Newton, the team has cycled through a series of quarterbacks, each one offering a glimpse of potential but never quite living up to the team’s hopes. Whether it was Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Darnold, or Baker Mayfield, none of these players could provide the level of play that Carolina needed to be a true contender.
Last season, the Panthers found themselves in a familiar predicament, with the quarterback position continuing to be a major question mark. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young, selected with the number one overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is viewed as the future of the franchise. However, the Panthers are still in a position where they need a competent quarterback to stabilize the offense, at least in the short term. The upcoming free agency period presents the perfect opportunity to secure a solid veteran quarterback who can mentor Young and provide a bridge to the future.
The Importance of a Veteran Quarterback
In the past, many teams have found success by bringing in a veteran quarterback to act as both a mentor and a reliable starter, at least for a few seasons. A proven veteran quarterback can provide much-needed stability and help a team navigate the growing pains associated with developing a young signal-caller. For the Panthers, finding a veteran quarterback in free agency could be the difference between another disappointing season and a potential playoff berth.
While Young represents the long-term solution, the Panthers’ success in the immediate future will largely depend on the presence of a veteran quarterback who can step in and guide the offense. This player needs to be someone who understands how to manage an offense, read defenses, and make quick decisions under pressure. While the Panthers may not be able to sign the biggest names in free agency, they do have the chance to secure a player who can help bridge the gap and set the stage for Young’s eventual ascension as the team’s full-time starter.
The Case for Underrated Free-Agent Quarterbacks
In the ever-evolving NFL, the market for free-agent quarterbacks is often dominated by flashy names and high-profile signings. However, not all successful quarterbacks are necessarily marquee names. In fact, many teams have found long-term success by signing underrated free-agent quarterbacks who have flown under the radar but possess the skill set and leadership qualities to make an immediate impact.
For the Panthers, focusing on an underrated quarterback could be the smart play. The franchise does not need to make a blockbuster signing, but rather find a player who is capable of executing the game plan and supporting Young’s development. It’s all about finding the right fit, and that means targeting players who may not get the same attention as their high-profile counterparts but who possess the talent and experience to succeed.
There are several free-agent quarterbacks who could fit this bill. These players may not generate the same level of excitement as the top-tier options, but they offer qualities that could complement what the Panthers need right now. The Panthers should look for quarterbacks who are seasoned enough to handle the pressure of being a starting quarterback in the NFL while also being humble enough to help Young grow and learn.
Candidates for the Panthers’ Free-Agent Quarterback Search
While it’s hard to predict which specific quarterbacks the Panthers will pursue, there are several names on the market who could make sense for the team. The Panthers should be looking for a quarterback who can provide stability, leadership, and a proven ability to manage an offense. Here are a few potential candidates:
- Jimmy Garoppolo
One of the most consistent quarterbacks over the last few years, Garoppolo has been a starter for the San Francisco 49ers and has demonstrated the ability to win games in a system that values efficiency and smart decision-making. Although he is not the most dynamic quarterback, Garoppolo has proven that he can lead a team to success, including a Super Bowl appearance with the 49ers in 2019. His experience in big games and his familiarity with different offensive systems could make him a solid fit in Carolina as a bridge quarterback to help develop Bryce Young. - Andy Dalton
A seasoned veteran with a decade of experience, Dalton is an underrated quarterback who has quietly had a solid career. After stints with the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, and New Orleans Saints, Dalton has shown that he can be an effective starter when needed. He is a smart quarterback who can manage the game and provide leadership to a young team. Dalton would be an ideal mentor for Bryce Young, offering him the guidance he needs to transition into the NFL smoothly. - Teddy Bridgewater
Bridgewater’s time in Carolina was brief but impactful. The Panthers may want to consider bringing him back for a second stint in a more familiar role. Bridgewater has always been known for his leadership and ability to manage an offense without making costly mistakes. While he may not have the ability to carry a team on his own, he could provide stability in the quarterback room and serve as a reliable option for the Panthers as they continue to develop Young. - Marcus Mariota
Mariota is a player who has never quite lived up to his potential but has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career. After a disappointing tenure with the Tennessee Titans, Mariota found a second chance with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he displayed his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. His mobility and experience as a backup quarterback could make him a solid fit in Carolina. He could serve as a solid bridge quarterback who brings both leadership and a dual-threat ability to the team. - Case Keenum
Keenum has bounced around the league but has had success in various systems, including a remarkable 2017 season with the Minnesota Vikings where he led the team to the NFC Championship Game. While Keenum is not a flashy name, he is a steady and reliable quarterback who can keep the offense moving. He is known for his composure in critical situations and his ability to make throws when it matters most. Keenum could be an excellent mentor for Bryce Young, bringing a wealth of experience to the table.
The Strategic Advantage of Signing an Underrated Quarterback
There are several reasons why signing an underrated quarterback in free agency could be the ideal move for the Panthers. First, these players often come at a more affordable price, which would allow Carolina to allocate resources to other key positions of need. In addition, signing a more understated quarterback would allow the team to focus on building the rest of the roster, including addressing weaknesses on defense and upgrading the offensive line.
Second, these quarterbacks tend to have a chip on their shoulder and are eager to prove themselves. Players like Garoppolo, Dalton, and Mariota have often been overlooked or written off in some capacity, making them highly motivated to succeed. That type of hunger can be contagious, helping to elevate the play of the entire team.
Finally, signing an underrated quarterback allows the Panthers to remain flexible. If the quarterback performs well, they could keep him as the starter or even trade him for assets down the line. Conversely, if things don’t work out, the Panthers can move forward with Bryce Young without being overly committed to a long-term deal.