A Pessimistic Perspective

It is hard for me to feel optimistic about the upcoming Panthers season. I am pessimistic about my sports teams to begin with, and when I look at the circumstances surrounding this team, it is enough to put you into a depression.

As we head into the first preseason game, the Panthers have already been hit hard by injuries. The offensive tackle injuries were well mitigated by Dan Morgan, but there was no preparing for the Nic Scourton injury. He looked poised to make a huge jump this season. Hopefully Pat Jones can fill in at an acceptable level.

As concerning as those injuries are, my pessimism is really centered on Bryce Young's ceiling. I like Bryce, but I cannot shake the feeling that his limitations are going to keep this team from making a deep playoff run. The arm strength can be managed, but the size difference is startling when you see him standing in the huddle. Yes, it is Year 4 and I should probably be over it, but he still looks out of place on the field. If he were even three inches taller, I honestly think I would view the future of this franchise much differently.

I am excited to watch this fall, and I hope I am wrong. But right now, I cannot help but think this team is eventually going to be back in the painful search for a franchise quarterback, and that does not sound like much fun.