It’s going to look like an entire different team on the field this year for Carolina Panthers fans. That also may be because it essentially is.
Nine-year quarterback Cam Newton has officially moved on to the New England Patriots, and defensive staple Luke Kuechly announced his retirement. On top of that Greg Olsen is headed to Seattle to catch passes from Russell Wilson, James Bradberry is a part of the New York “Football” Giants, and Mario Addison will move to Buffalo, and join the Bills’ defensive line.
Panthers fans all over twitter have not been happy campers with the way the front office has dealt with Cam Newton, and certainly the $63 million contract to Teddy Bridgewater didn’t mend things together.
The Carolina Panthers have not missed the playoffs in four consecutive seasons, dating back to a rough stretch from 2009-2012. This could be the first time in a long time that the Carolina faithful could be left empty handed come January four years in a row, even with the expansion to 14 playoff teams.
This team shouldn’t be a complete train wreck though. Christian McCaffrey is still the greatest running back in football, the receiving core looks like the most promising one in a long time, and the defense is young a promising. Even if Carolina fans aren’t necessarily watching wins this season, here are five things that they can look for in the upcoming year.