text: 2021 season Changes came for the Panthers before the offseason even started. On January 14, after a long search process, Scott Fitterer was named general manager. Fitterer previously spent many years in Seattle's front office, helping draft numerous players. Before the draft, the Panthers traded with the Jets for quarterback Sam Darnold. Bridgewater was traded to the Broncos days later for an extra draft pick. During the 2021 NFL draft, the Panthers selected cornerback Jaycee Horn with the 8th overall pick. They also made five trades, the most in franchise history.
  After starting the season 3–0, the Panthers fell off a cliff. Injuries to McCaffrey, inconsistent quarterback play and a poor offensive line doomed the team in many games. Horn was also injured early and missed most of his rookie season. The defense overall was a highlight, however, they could not mask all the offensive woes. The Panthers started three different quarterbacks, including Cam Newton, who returned to the team in the middle of the season. Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady was fired with the team's record at 5–7. They wouldn't win another game after Brady's firing, finishing the year a disappointing 5–12.
  2022 season
  The Panthers started the offseason firing three assistant coaches, including two hired by Ron Rivera. Carolina brought in Ben McAdoo, formerly the Giants head coach, to be their new offensive coordinator. The team drafted well, selecting offensive lineman Ikem Ekwonu with the 6th overall pick and quarterback Matt Corral in the third round, among others. Before the start of the season, the team signed former Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield would wind up as the starter due to preseason injuries to Darnold and Corral.