The Carolina Panthers’ new general manager, Dan Morgan, acknowledges the challenges of turning around an NFL team after a disappointing 2-15 season. It’s a process that takes time.
That’s why Morgan is emphasizing patience, despite the pressure of a six-year playoff drought hanging over the organization.
“I’m not setting any expectations right now,” Morgan said on Tuesday, as veteran players gathered for the start of training camp. “I know we have a lot of work ahead of us, both in terms of personnel and player development. When it comes to reaching the playoffs, we’ll achieve that goal when we’re fully prepared. Right now, our focus is on improving day by day.”
While this measured approach might not satisfy fans eager for playoff success, Morgan’s strategy could be exactly what the Panthers need.
In recent years, the team has often pursued quick fixes, making moves that either tied up salary cap space or sacrificed valuable draft picks.
For example, in 2023, former general manager Scott Fitterer traded away four picks, including one that would have been the top overall selection in the 2024 draft, along with wide receiver D.J. Moore, to the Chicago Bears in order to move up eight spots to select quarterback Bryce Young at No. 1.
Young struggled in his debut season, averaging less than 180 passing yards per game and recording 11 touchdowns against 10 interceptions.
Despite this, Morgan expressed confidence in Young, believing he possesses the qualities needed to succeed as an NFL quarterback.
“In my time with Josh Allen in Buffalo and Russell Wilson in Seattle, I saw how they improved every game and every year,” Morgan said. “Bryce works hard like they do, so I expect him to progress similarly. I have no doubt about that.”
During the offseason, Morgan focused on surrounding Young with talent to aid his development.
The Panthers invested heavily in offensive guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, spending over $150 million after allowing 65 sacks last season. They acquired Diontae Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers and drafted Xavier Legette from South Carolina in the first round to bolster the receiving corps, which struggled to create separation.
Additionally, they picked up running back Jonathan Brooks in the second round and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders in the fourth.
“I’m really grateful for our receiving group,” Young commented. “We’ve got a great bunch of guys who are competitive and determined to be the best they can be.”
Now, the responsibility lies with new and enthusiastic head coach Dave Canales to develop these players, including Young.
Canales has experience working with quarterbacks like Geno Smith in Seattle and Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay, employing an offensive system that emphasizes quick decision-making.
This adjustment could be significant, but Morgan, a former Panthers linebacker with Super Bowl experience, is prepared to be patient. While he is eager to rebuild the Panthers into a winning team, he is committed to doing so methodically and according to his vision.
