I really like the way this team is trending. Morgan and Canales rookie campaign saw them do some questionable picks but, they also did some really good things. Especially addressing the offensive line. Young had such a disastrous rookie season where his confidence was nowhere to be seen. You can attribute part of this to a terrible offensive line. So, we focused on the O-line. We then brought in several defensive free agents that were supposed to compliment Brown. Once Brown went down those players could not hold the line.
2025 we focused on defense in Free Agency and brought in several good players. We then added more talent in the draft. I think we have competition in several areas where Vets are not guaranteed to be starters. Our offensive line is pretty set with some good backups. Our defensive line is going to be a war for who comes out to be the starters.
All in All, we are leaps and bounds much better than 2023 roster.
Canales made some rookie head coach mistakes but grew as the season progressed. He got our QB, who was starting to look like a huge bust, playing with confidence and poise. Now it appears Young is moving upwards. Maybe he is a QB whisperer. After Young started to play better our offense was fun to watch.
Morgan knows football and knows what he wants in his players. It appears to me that not only are these players he's drafted really good and got great value for them, but they are also high motor, intense players. Our defense, in the past, was always the key to our success. I think Morgan is building a great defense.
I know it is too soon to tell but I believe we may have a tandem that will be around a long time. It would be nice to see Morgan/Canales be in the same class as Lynch/Shanahan and Beane/McDermott. I know many Huddlers will overreact, but I truly believe we have a tandem that will be around a long time.
TIME WILL TELL.
Go Panthers