Panthers GM Dan Morgan: Rebuild on Track, Bryce Young’s Progress

Panthers GM Dan Morgan Optimistic About Team’s Rebuild and Bryce Young’s Future

Carolina Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan joined The Pat McAfee Show, offering a candid look into the team’s ongoing rebuild, the development of quarterback Bryce Young, and the overall culture shift within the organization. Morgan, a former linebacker for the Miami Hurricanes and a veteran of the NFL, expressed a strong sense of optimism about the direction the Panthers are heading.

Building a Foundation for Winning

When asked about the team’s progress since he took over as GM, Morgan stated, “We feel good. We feel really good about it. Um, you know, I think we’re making steps each year that, you know, that I’ve took over. Um, we’re building a foundation. We’re bringing the right type of guys in, guys, guys that are passionate about football. So, um, we got to keep bringing those type of guys in and and just keep the culture of winning going.” This sentiment was echoed when discussing the palpable excitement from the fanbase during a recent playoff-atmosphere game, which Morgan noted “makes everybody feel like we’re on the right track.” He emphasized the desire for consistent success, stating, “We want to consistently be in the playoffs.”

Bryce Young’s Resilience and Growth

A significant portion of the conversation focused on the development of the team’s franchise quarterback, Bryce Young. Morgan spoke highly of Young’s character and resilience, particularly after a challenging rookie season that included a benching. “I’m proud of Bryce in general to go through the adversity that he went through and, you know, getting benched,” Morgan shared. “I remember him sitting in my office and talking to him about like, hey, like you’re eventually going to be back out there. You know, just take this in stride. You know, try to go out there, just keep working hard. And, you know, he went out there. He worked hard. He put the work in. And I’m just so proud of him for doing that.” Morgan also highlighted Young’s strong performance after returning to the starting lineup, noting that he “took off” following an injury to veteran backup Andy Dalton. The GM also addressed the perception of Young’s size, suggesting it was “blown way out of proportion” and that Young himself would admit to the learning curve of his first year.

Veteran Presence and Future at Quarterback

The discussion touched upon the future of veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, who provided valuable support and occasional starts for the Panthers. While Morgan praised Dalton as a “really good player” and a “great culture fit,” he acknowledged the team’s desire to “get a little younger and a little more athletic at that backup quarterback spot.” He indicated openness to exploring trade possibilities for Dalton if the veteran wished to pursue them, stating, “I think if the possibility did come up that I would talk to Andy, give him that option and let him, you know, explore a trade.”

Ownership and Front Office Alignment

Morgan also provided insight into the working relationship with owner David Tepper, dispelling any notions of a difficult dynamic. “He wants to win. I want to win. The organization wants to win,” Morgan said, describing Tepper as “so passionate about the team.” He added that Tepper has been “amazing to work with” and is “funny” and “likes having a good time.” The GM also highlighted the collaborative environment, mentioning daily communication with Tepper and positive working relationships with other front office members, including Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly.

Draft Philosophy: Focusing on the ‘Guy’

A key aspect of the Panthers’ draft strategy, according to Morgan, is a deep dive into evaluating the character and mentality of potential prospects. “We just want to find more about the guy because I feel like if you’re going to miss on a player, I think it’s more about missing on the guy than it is the actual player,” Morgan explained. This involves extensive interviews, looking for players who are “passionate about football” and understanding their “football story.” He also emphasized the importance of “dogs. Dogs only,” indicating a preference for competitive, high-motor players.

Evaluating Prospects: Production Over Potential

When discussing the perennial debate between production and potential in the draft, Morgan leaned heavily towards proven performance. “To me, I’m always going to go with the production,” he stated. He cautioned against relying too heavily on potential, noting, “potential get your ass fired.” This approach, he believes, is informed by his experience as a former player who has seen prospects fail to translate potential into NFL success.

The ‘Blue Blood Score’ and Big Game Experience

The Panthers utilize an analytics department that generates a “blue blood score” to assess how players perform against top competition. Morgan finds this metric crucial, stating, “I think that’s really important to see how these guys do against top level competition as opposed to playing against the lower tier schools.” This is part of a broader effort to ensure players are ready for the high-pressure environment of the NFL.

Team Culture and Offseason Plans

Morgan expressed confidence in the team’s locker room culture, describing it as having “a bunch of guys that they they just want to win.” He anticipates strong attendance at offseason programs, fueled by the players’ hunger and the overall organizational alignment. The GM concluded with a rallying cry, “Let’s eat,” signaling an eagerness to continue the work and build upon the progress made.

Source: Panthers GM Dan Morgan Raves About Bryce Young & Panthers Rebuild | The Pat McAfee Show (YouTube)