ESPN's Early Power Rankings Has the Panthers Where You Would Expect

No. 32? You betcha!

When you finish with the worst record in the NFL, 2-15, you're probably going to find yourself at or near the bottom of every way-too-early power ranking list and that's the case for the Carolina Panthers in ESPN's look-ahead to the 2024 campaign.

The Panthers rank 32nd with the Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, and New York Giants sitting just ahead of them. 

"The Panthers made Dave Canales their third non-interim head coach in less than three years and fourth since 2019. They did it to help turn around quarterback Bryce Young, whom Canales called an "amazing talent.'' Canales hopes to do what he did for Baker Mayfield this past season and Geno Smith in 2022," writes David Newton. "Both had career seasons. Young needs support after ranking next to last in Total QBR during his rookie season."

In a normal year, the worst team in the league would get a boost from the draft but with the Panthers sending the No. 1 overall pick to Chicago, they're going to have to bank on that No. 33 overall selection at the top of the second round being an immediate impact player. 

Free agency is going to be massive for this team and it won't be just about adding talent, but retaining it as well. Linebackers Brian Burns and Frankie Luvu will be free agents this offseason and if they're unable to get a deal done with either of them, it will only help solidify their place as the league's No. 32 team heading into 2024.

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