A key offseason priority is revealed by the Carolina Panthers general manager.

As the 2024 NFL season winds down, teams across the league are already turning their attention to the offseason, where important decisions regarding personnel, strategy, and organizational direction must be made. For the Carolina Panthers, a team that has endured significant changes over the past few years, this offseason carries a crucial weight. With the Panthers failing to qualify for the playoffs in 2024, their general manager, Scott Fitterer, has made it clear that the upcoming offseason will be critical in shaping the team’s future. In a recent press conference, Fitterer revealed one of the key priorities for the Panthers as they look ahead: securing a long-term solution at quarterback.

The Panthers have been searching for stability at the quarterback position for several years, having cycled through several quarterbacks since the departure of franchise legend Cam Newton. From Teddy Bridgewater to Sam Darnold, and later Baker Mayfield, the Panthers have been unable to find consistent play under center. With the 2024 season now behind them, Fitterer has recognized that finding the right quarterback is the team’s foremost priority. This revelation marks a pivotal moment in the Panthers’ rebuild, as they enter an offseason that could define their trajectory for years to come.

This article will explore Fitterer’s comments, the implications of his statement, and the potential avenues the Panthers could explore in their quest for a solution at quarterback. We will also examine the broader context of the Panthers’ rebuilding process, what challenges they face, and how they can position themselves to become a competitive force in the NFC South.

Fitterer’s Focus on the Quarterback Position

In his recent interview, Scott Fitterer was direct and clear in his assessment of the Panthers’ current situation. When asked about the team’s most pressing needs heading into the 2025 season, Fitterer unequivocally pointed to the quarterback position as the number one priority.

“We’ve been through a number of quarterbacks in recent seasons, and it’s clear to us that we need a long-term answer at that position,” Fitterer said. “The quarterback is the leader of the team, and it’s the most important position on the field. We need to identify and secure the right guy who can lead us to success and stability moving forward.”

Fitterer’s comments signal a shift in the franchise’s direction. The Panthers have spent several seasons trying to find a quarterback who can provide stability, but the results have been less than ideal. The team’s inability to find a consistent starting quarterback has had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the offense but also the overall team culture and morale.

The 2024 season saw a mix of performances at the quarterback position. Bryce Young, the Panthers’ first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency and adaptation to the NFL’s speed. Young’s potential as a future star was evident, but he needs time to develop and refine his skills in order to truly lead the franchise. However, the Panthers can’t afford to wait indefinitely for Young to become a finished product. The situation necessitates a long-term solution that can elevate the team immediately while also allowing Young the opportunity to grow.

With Fitterer’s admission that finding a quarterback is the top priority, it’s clear the Panthers are looking to take a more aggressive approach in addressing this critical need. Let’s explore the key factors that could influence the Panthers’ decisions as they head into the offseason.

The Quest for a Franchise Quarterback

Finding a franchise quarterback is no easy task in the NFL. While several teams have been lucky enough to secure long-term stability at the position, many franchises, including the Panthers, have struggled with the lack of a definitive answer. A franchise quarterback is more than just a reliable starter; they are the cornerstone of the team’s success, the leader in the locker room, and the player who can elevate the rest of the team. The Panthers are acutely aware that securing a top-tier quarterback is the key to their future success.

Option 1: Moving Forward with Bryce Young

While Fitterer was candid about the need for a solution at quarterback, it’s important to acknowledge the presence of Bryce Young on the roster. The Panthers’ decision to select Young first overall in the 2024 draft was a clear signal of their belief in his potential as the future leader of the franchise. Young showed signs of promise during his rookie season, though his overall numbers were marred by inconsistency and a lack of support on the offensive line.

Young’s performance in 2024 showed flashes of his high ceiling. His poise in the pocket, mobility, and ability to make precise throws under pressure were all evident. However, his struggles with accuracy and decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations, were clear areas for improvement. It’s important to remember that Young is still a rookie, and many quarterbacks face challenges in their first season as they adjust to the NFL.

For the Panthers, the question becomes whether they are willing to continue developing Young as their franchise quarterback or if they will explore other options. The team has invested significant resources in Young, and there’s a strong case to be made for giving him another year to develop. However, if the Panthers believe they are ready to contend sooner rather than later, they may seek to add a more seasoned quarterback to accelerate their timeline.

Option 2: Trading for a Proven Veteran Quarterback

One of the most common routes for teams searching for a stable quarterback solution is to pursue a trade for a proven veteran. Over the past few seasons, several established quarterbacks have been traded to new teams, bringing with them experience, leadership, and the ability to contribute immediately. For the Panthers, this could be a way to add a capable leader at quarterback who can guide the team in the short term while allowing Young time to develop.

Several quarterbacks could potentially be available for trade this offseason, including some big-name players who may be on the move due to contract issues or team rebuilding efforts. Players like Kirk Cousins, Ryan Tannehill, or even Derek Carr could be viable options for teams in need of a steady hand at quarterback.

Trading for a veteran quarterback would provide an immediate upgrade at the position. It could also give the Panthers the opportunity to bring in a mentor for Bryce Young, helping him adjust to the rigors of the NFL while learning from a more experienced player. However, acquiring a veteran quarterback could come at a high price, both in terms of draft capital and salary cap space, so it’s important for the Panthers to assess the long-term viability of such a move.

Option 3: Drafting a Quarterback in the 2025 Draft

Another route the Panthers could take is to use their draft capital to select another quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. If the Panthers do not feel that Bryce Young is the long-term answer, or if they want to bring in a backup with more upside, selecting a quarterback in the draft could be an option.

The 2025 draft class is expected to feature some exciting quarterback prospects. Depending on their draft position, the Panthers may be able to secure a player who could compete with Young for the starting role or eventually take over as the franchise quarterback. Players like Caleb Williams from USC or Drake Maye from North Carolina could be available if the Panthers opt to go in this direction.

Drafting a quarterback would provide the team with a potential future star while also offering the chance to reset their quarterback timeline. However, this route comes with the risk that the new quarterback may face a similar developmental arc as Young, requiring patience and potentially leading to more growing pains. Given that the Panthers are in a relatively competitive division, they may decide to prioritize a more immediate solution at quarterback rather than rolling the dice on a rookie.

The Bigger Picture: Team Rebuilding

While the quarterback position remains the most pressing issue, it’s important to consider the broader context of the Panthers’ rebuilding efforts. Over the past few seasons, the Panthers have been working to build a competitive roster with a solid foundation. The hiring of head coach Frank Reich in 2024 was part of a larger vision to establish a balanced, sustainable team capable of long-term success. The offensive line remains a work in progress, and while there is talent on the defensive side of the ball, the Panthers will need to continue investing in key areas to ensure they can be competitive in the NFC South.

The team’s lack of stability at quarterback has been a significant obstacle to their overall success. Once they identify their quarterback of the future, the Panthers will need to continue to build around him. Strengthening the offensive line, improving the receiving corps, and enhancing the defense will all be critical in giving their quarterback the best chance to succeed. Fitterer and Reich will likely be looking for ways to add talent through the draft, free agency, and trades to bolster these areas.