Panthers Had Two of the Worst Free Agent Signings in 2023

The Carolina Panthers had two of the twelve worst free agent signings last offseason, according to Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated.

No. 9 - RB Miles Sanders

"Sanders was one of the rare running backs who received a multi-year contract worth at least $6 million per year. Sanders’s play, however, didn’t provide a good example for running backs to follow by posting a dismal average of 3.3 yards per carry. Sanders only started five games for the Panthers and recorded 432 yards on 129 carries during the 2023 season."

No. 11 - TE Hayden Hurst

"Similar to Sanders, Hurst failed to make an impact for the Panthers’ stagnant offense last season. Hurst, 30, only recorded 18 catches for 184 yards and one touchdown during nine games played. Hurst sustained a concussion that forced him to end the year on injured reserve."

Yesterday, Joe Person of The Athletic reported that the Panthers are planning to release Hurst after the veteran tight end declined to take a pay cut to remain on the roster. There hasn't been any news on Sanders' future with the team, but GM Dan Morgan has stated repeatedly that Chuba Hubbard is the lead back moving forward. Cutting Sanders this offseason would result in $8.4 million in dead cap whereas that total would decrease to $2.9 million if they waited to part ways until 2025.