Who Should I Start? Andy Dalton or Hendon Hooker

Friday, March 6, 7:10 PM

The Carolina Panthers intend to replace backup quarterback Andy Dalton this offseason, according to David Newton of ESPN.com. "Moving on is the plan, even if it means releasing Dalton and leaving $3.83 million in dead cap money with a post-June 1 parting," Newton wrote. This loosely echoes previous comments from Panthers general manager Dan Morgan, who said the team wants to develop a young backup behind Bryce Young and that Dalton would have to compete for a roster spot. At this point, it sounds unlikely that he'll be back for 2026, with the Panthers perhaps looking toward free agency or the NFL Draft for a younger replacement. Newton identified veteran journeyman quarterbacks Kenny Pickett, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, and Sam Howell as potential QB2 options in Carolina going forward.