The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for arguably their most crucial contest since Super Bowl 50. Everything is on the line in Week 18 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and head coach Dave Canales' squad is starting the playoffs early in a win-or-go-home scenario.
It's encouraging to see the Panthers in this sort of position. The strides being made under Canales' leadership are immensely encouraging. It's not consistent enough yet, but another strong offseason from general manager Dan Morgan on the recruitment side might be sufficient for this upstart organization to return among the contenders.
Not everyone will come along for the ride, but some have undoubtedly improved their chances of securing an extended stay.