CHARLOTTE, N.C.

The Carolina Panthers’ struggles were painfully evident in their recent 30-14 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, a game that showcased the team's ongoing issues. Quarterback Bryce Young started strong, completing his first six passes for 37 yards, and running back Chuba Hubbard had an impressive four carries for 22 yards during an almost flawless opening drive. However, disaster struck on the 13th play, when Young fumbled while scrambling, marking the beginning of a downturn that would define the rest of the game and season.

This loss encapsulates the Panthers’ ongoing battle — they have lost 11 of their 14 games this season. With a defense ranked 31st in the league, they allowed 410 yards to a Dallas squad led by backup quarterback Cooper Rush. Disturbingly, the Panthers’ run defense ranked dead last, surrendering a staggering 211 rushing yards to a team that entered the game ranked 28th in rushing offense, averaging only 91.2 yards per game.

Young's performance was particularly troubling; he finished the game with four turnovers — two interceptions and two lost fumbles — an alarming escalation from the single turnover he had managed over the previous four games. “It shows how finely balanced the Panthers’ chances of competing are; it's either close games or catastrophic losses,” remarked head coach Dave Canales after the game.

Canales continues to back Young as the starting quarterback for an upcoming matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, who are currently fighting for the NFC West title. This decision shines a light on the team’s confidence in Young, the first pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, and suggests that the Panthers may avoid using a high draft pick on yet another quarterback next season.

“Our goal is for Bryce to maintain his confidence and see the game unfold. Despite the chaos around him, he's shown growth,” Canales mentioned positively. As the offseason approaches, enhancing the offensive line will be crucial, especially as Young faced an alarming six sacks against the Cowboys.

The Panthers’ defensive challenges have been amplified by season-ending injuries to key players like defensive tackle Derrick Brown and inside linebacker Shaq Thompson, whose absence has wreaked havoc on the team’s defensive cohesion. “There’s been a lack of chemistry in our run fits. It’s clear we need to address this,” defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson explained.

In preparation for next season, the Panthers need to bolster their roster, particularly on defense. Potential draft prospects include standout talents like Colorado’s Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, who offers dual-threat potential as a cornerback and wide receiver, and acclaimed edge rushers such as Abdul Carter from Penn State and Mason Graham from Michigan. The need for a potent outside linebacker is pressing, especially as Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum approach contract expiration.

The inconsistency in the Panthers' defensive performance is troubling; players have expressed frustration over the inability to maintain a high level of play. “It’s about consistency. We show flashes but can’t sustain it,” said inside linebacker Josey Jewell.

As the Panthers prepare for the Cardinals, the urgency becomes clear. Competing against one of the league's best rushing offenses will test their resolve. The team possesses the tools to improve but must execute effectively to overcome their challenges. Failure to do so could result in another disappointing outing, leaving fans wondering if the Panthers can ever find their footing.

Expectations and pressures are mounting, and the path forward remains fraught with uncertainty. Will the Panthers rise to the occasion and reclaim their competitive edge, or will they succumb to yet another season of despair? Only time will tell, but with the right moves in the upcoming off-season, the Panthers could very well turn things around before the 2025 NFL Draft looms. Stay tuned!