A big part of Carolina's turnaround in 2022 can be attributed to the success of the rushing attack. The offensive line did a phenomenal job of winning up front and getting to the second level which allowed D'Onta Foreman and Chuba Hubbard to run wild down the stretch.
Heading into free agency next week, the Panthers are hoping to get a deal done with Foreman to return in 2023 and beyond, but there's a small chance that the two sides can't agree on the right number.
So, who should Carolina look to land in free agency if Foreman doesn't return?
Jamaal Williams
Williams had a breakout season this past year with the Detroit Lions, where he rushed for 1,066 yards and a league-leading 17 touchdowns. His position coach just happens to be new Panthers running back coach Duce Staley. In this scenario where Foreman is gone, Williams could see this as an opportunity to follow Staley to Carolina and continue that success. In some ways, Williams would be the perfect replacement for Foreman. They have similar running styles and is someone that can handle a heavy workload.
Miles Sanders
Another guy that has played for Duce Staley. Sanders worked with the Panthers RB coach during the first two years of his career in 2019 and 2020. During that time, Sanders rushed for 1,685 yards and nine touchdowns. He broke out in a big way this past season, becoming a big part of Philly's run to the Super Bowl rushing for 1,269 yards and 11 scores on 259 carries. The Eagles would love to have him back and their will be several others that express interest, meaning it could turn into a bit of a bidding war.
David Montgomery
I view Montgomery much higher than most. He's been on a bad team with a bad offensive line since he entered the league, yet still averages 902.3 rushing yards per season. Coming to a place like Carolina, who has an established group up front, could elevate him to becoming a Pro Bowl-caliber back. He's also a very good pass-catching option out of the backfield, hauling in 80% of passes thrown in his direction throughout his four-year career.
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