Looking ahead to the 2024 season, we are concluding our series of “24 Questions for 2024” that will impact the Panthers both now and in the future.
What defines a successful 2024 season?
It is unlikely that the 2024 Carolina Panthers will replicate the magic of the 2003 “Cardiac Cats” with a deep playoff run. In fact, most Panthers fans probably don’t see a playoff spot as a realistic goal.
Success or failure is often judged based on our initial expectations. A team aiming for the Super Bowl would be disappointed with a 9-8 record, while a team like the Panthers, who have struggled in recent years, would be thrilled with a winning season.
So, what would make 2024 a success for the Panthers? There are three key aspects:
Firstly, new coach Dave Canales and his team need to show innovation on offense, adaptability on defense, and overall competence. It has been a while since the Panthers have been described as innovative or competent, especially on offense. Winning may not be the priority in 2024 as long as Canales demonstrates progress and lays a strong foundation for the future.
The second measure of success involves Bryce Young evolving into a competent quarterback who can lead the Panthers’ offense to competitiveness most weeks, essentially becoming a capable game manager. While it may seem like setting a low bar for a former top pick in his second season, it’s crucial for Young to progress gradually. The Panthers also aim to stay in playoff contention later in the season, providing fans with a reason to stay engaged beyond October and avoiding an early elimination from postseason possibilities by Thanksgiving.
Despite the Panthers’ struggles, there are reasons to be hopeful for the 2024 season. The NFC South division, to which Carolina belongs, is characterized by unpredictability and inconsistency among its teams, offering a chance for the Panthers to compete. While there are uncertainties, such as Bryce Young’s development and the team’s overall performance, the lack of a dominant force in the division leaves room for Carolina to potentially shine with a few positive outcomes.
Conversely, fans who remain pessimistic about the upcoming season may point to the Panthers’ history of disappointing performances in recent years. Being cautiously skeptical about the team’s prospects is a realistic stance given their struggles and the low expectations surrounding them. Moreover, the Panthers have had a tough season in 2023 and are currently ranked as the least favorable team going into the new season.
One ray of hope comes in the form of safety Jordan Fuller, a second-wave free agent signing. Fuller brings quality and depth to a Panthers defensive unit lacking in both areas, with a track record of solid performance throughout his career. Despite not fully compensating for the departures of key players, Fuller’s presence could bolster the team, particularly in the secondary.
