The Carolina Panthers came out of the 2023 NFL Draft with several answers to their roster questions.
By adding Bryce Young, the Panthers now have their franchise quarterback, something the organization has been craving.
Now that the quarterback position has been taken care of, the Panthers have turned their attention to another task.
According to NFL reporter Aaron Wilson, the Panthers have recently declined the fifth-year option for C.J. Henderson.
#Panthers decline to exercise fifth-year club option for C.J. Henderson
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) May 1, 2023
Henderson has spent the last two years with the Panthers, after being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020.
He was acquired by the Panthers during the 2021 season, a trade that sent a 2022 third-round pick and Dan Arnold back to the Jaguars.
2022 was a banner year for Henderson, racking up career highs in tackles and interceptions, seemingly contributing to the Panthers’ secondary.
However, the Panthers appear to be on a mission, especially with their new head coach, Frank Reich.
This is a team that is ready to compete now, given the number of pieces they have added in the offseason.
If there is a weak link, the team will waste no time to get rid of them, moving forward with a deep playoff run in mind.
The Panthers finished the 2022 season with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs by one game.
When looking ahead to 2023, however, the NFC South looks significantly different than it did last year.
If there is any time for the Panthers to make a move, it is now.
All four teams in the division will have a new starting quarterback to start the year, making for a potential shakeup.
NEXT: Former NBA Star Makes A Strong Statement About Bryce Young
