The Carolina Panthers, fresh off a thrilling 44-38 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, are considering contract extensions for players from their 2022 NFL Draft class, which has not proven to be particularly impactful. After three seasons in the NFL, left tackle Ikem Ekwonu and guard Cade Mays are now eligible for extensions. While the Panthers might contemplate locking in Ekwonu, who has shown inconsistency, Mays's versatility and reliability may make him a more straightforward choice for an early extension.

Despite a lackluster draft class where many players have fallen off, the Panthers have improved their offensive line and now have opportunities to secure Ekwonu and Mays for the long term. Their performance this season could influence the decision-making process regarding these extensions, especially considering the evolving roles and future of the offensive line.

The Carolina Panthers face a pivotal decision regarding their rookie quarterback, Bryce Young, as they prepare for their season finale against the Atlanta Falcons. After spending five weeks on the bench, Young has emerged as a standout performer in the NFL, particularly since Week 9, raising questions about his playing status for the upcoming game. Although the Panthers have little to gain from the match, they have the opportunity to spoil the Falcons' playoff hopes.

One argument for resting Young is his potential risk of injury. At a smaller stature, he has shown resilience against hits, but the Panthers’ offensive line is currently compromised, with several key players on the injury report. The team allowed an alarming 68.6% pressure rate last week, which could put Young in jeopardy against a formidable Falcons pass rush. Given the injuries affecting the running game and offensive line, sitting Young may seem prudent to protect the franchise's future.

Conversely, the Panthers lack offensive options without Young on the field. His performance last week demonstrated that he is crucial for moving the ball, as he accounted for a significant portion of the team’s passing yards. The alternative quarterbacks, Andy Dalton and Jack Plummer, are less capable of leading the offense effectively. Moreover, Young's continued development is essential, not just for his chemistry with the current roster but also for building rapport with rookie pass-catchers. Therefore, despite the risks, the Panthers should opt to play Young in the season finale to ensure he gains valuable experience and maintains the team’s offensive competitiveness.

The Carolina Panthers faced a devastating 48-14 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, further exposing the multitude of issues plaguing the team. Battered and bruised, the Panthers' performance highlighted the urgent need for a re-evaluation of their roster and strategy. With injuries compounding their defensive struggles, coordinator Ejiro Evero finds himself with limited resources to counter the NFC South's dominant teams.

This loss has prompted calls for significant changes in the offseason, particularly in bolstering the defense. The NFL Stock Exchange podcast recently outlined a strategy for the Panthers to create $40-45 million in cap space to pursue impactful free agents. Among the potential targets are notable players like Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, who could revitalize the offense, alongside pass rushers like Josh Sweat and Haason Reddick, and defensive backs DJ Reed and Charvarious Ward.

The Panthers' current record of 4-12, combined with the league's worst defense, underscores the need for an aggressive approach in the upcoming offseason. With Bryce Young demonstrating promise as a quarterback on his rookie contract, the front office is expected to make bold moves to transform the team's defensive identity, aiming for a more competitive 2024 and beyond.

The Carolina Panthers are facing significant injury challenges as they prepare to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this Sunday. With playoff implications on the line, the Panthers are expected to be without several key players, which could heavily impact their performance. The team has already confirmed that linebacker Josey Jewell will miss the game due to a concussion and a quad injury, while cornerback Chau-Smith Wade is also sidelined with an illness and chest injury.

In addition to these confirmed absences, several other players are listed as doubtful, including tackle Taylor Moton and cornerback Jaycee Horn, who are both dealing with knee and hip injuries, respectively. The Panthers' defense is particularly vulnerable, as they are already missing several linebackers, including Shaq Thompson, Claudin Cherilus, and Trevin Wallace. With Jewell joining the ranks of the sidelined, the defensive unit, which has struggled throughout the season, faces an uphill battle against the Buccaneers.

Offensively, the Panthers are in a slightly better position, but the potential loss of running back Chuba Hubbard and the uncertain status of Xavier Legette could pose challenges. Moton's absence on the offensive line would also be felt, especially if Damien Lewis, who has been a standout performer this season, is unable to play due to his ankle and illness issues. Overall, the Panthers are likely to rely heavily on their backups as they attempt to secure a victory and thwart the Buccaneers' playoff aspirations.

The Carolina Panthers find themselves in a unique position to disrupt the NFC South as they prepare to face their final two opponents, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and another rival, with playoff implications at stake. Currently eliminated from postseason contention, the Panthers have the opportunity to play spoiler, particularly against the Buccaneers, whom they lost to in a recent overtime game. To achieve this, maintaining a healthy roster is crucial, especially given the number of players dealing with injuries.

As of Thursday's practice, several key players were absent or limited. Notable absentees included right tackle Taylor Moton, cornerbacks Chau Smith-Wade and Jaycee Horn, outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney, linebacker Josey Jewell, guard Damien Lewis, and outside linebacker Cam Gill. Meanwhile, other players like wide receivers Xavier Legette and Adam Thielen, tight end Tommy Tremble, and several others participated in limited capacities due to various injuries. However, quarterback Bryce Young, center Cade Mays, and left tackle Ikem Ekwonu were full participants, which bodes well for the Panthers' offensive line.

While none of the injured players have been designated as out for the upcoming game against Tampa Bay, their statuses will be closely monitored leading up to kickoff. This matchup is critical not only for the Buccaneers' playoff hopes but also gives the Panthers a chance to showcase their resilience and depth, even in a season that has not gone as planned.