The Carolina Panthers have been extremely disappointing this season and have the worst record in the NFL with a 2-14 record. Despite having the worst record, they will not have the 1st overall pick in the 2024 draft because they traded up to draft Bryce Young 1st overall in the 2023 draft.
Carolina’s offense has struggled in Bryce Young’s first year as the starting quarterback. They are ranked 31st in points, 32nd in yards, 32nd in yards per play, 25th in first downs, 31st in passing yards, and 20th in rushing yards.
Their offense will be without their number-three receiver in their season-finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Carolina Panthers 2nd round pick was placed on injured reserve
Rookie wide receiver Jonathan Mingo suffered a foot injury in their Week 17 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars and was placed on injured reserve Tuesday.
Mingo appeared in 15 games and started in 14 during his rookie season. He had 43 receptions on 85 targets for 418 yards, four drops, two interceptions, a passer rating of 54.9 when targeted, and a 54.7 PFF Grade.
Mingo has the second-most targets, the second-most receptions, and the third-most receiving yards on the team.
Who will be his replacement?
Although his replacement hasn’t been announced, Terrace Marshall Jr. could return to the lineup this week.
Marshall Jr. has 18 receptions on 32 targets for 134 yards in eight games this season. Marshall Jr. has been a healthy scratch for the last seven games.
If Marshall is a healthy scratch for next week, expect Ihmir Smith-Marsette or Mike Strachan to get the start.
Who’s their number-one wide receiver?
Adam Thielen is their number-one wide receiver. Thielen signed a 3-year, $25 million contract with Carolina during the 2023 offseason.
Despite their offense struggles, Thielen has been one of their bright spots. He is leading the team with 101 receptions on 134 targets for 1,002 yards and four receiving touchdowns.
Who’s their number-two wide receiver?
D.J. Chark is their number-two wide receiver. Chark signed a 1-year, $5 million contract during the 2023 offseason. He has 33 receptions on 62 targets for 479 yards and five receiving touchdowns.
Carolina can sabotage Tampa Bay this week
The Carolina Panthers can sabotage the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ chances of making the playoffs. Tampa Bay can win the NFC South division and the 4th seed in the NFC Playoff Picture with a win or a New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons tie.
If Carolina beats Tampa Bay and Atlanta or New Orleans wins in their game, then Tampa Bay would be eliminated from playoff contention.
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