The Carolina Panthers and their leadership were on hand for Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud’s Pro Day from Columbus on Wednesday.
Carolina is doing its homework on the top quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft after trading up from the ninth selection to No. 1 overall with the Chicago Bears.
Said homework now includes wining and dining Alabama quarterback Bryce Young in Tuscaloosa ahead of his Pro Day on Thursday.
According to multiple media reports, Panthers owners David and Nicole Tepper are joining general manager Scott Fitterer and head coach Frank Reich, among others, in having dinner with Young.
This isn’t necessarily atypical. Team brass meeting with top NFL Draft targets ahead of the annual event is part of the process we can expect. Though, the inclusion of David Tepper has to be seen as somewhat interesting. He had to approve the deal that sent out multiple draft assets as well as Pro Bowl receiver D.J. Moore to Chicago for the No. 1 pick.
He’s been heavily involved in the Panthers finding that potential franchise quarterback dating back to Cam Newton falling out of favor in Carolina. Tepper’s hands-on approach has apparently continued.
Related: Carolina Panthers legend expects surprise with No. 1 pick
Carolina Panthers sending mixed signals ahead of NFL Draft
A total of 11 Panthers officials made their way to Columbus for C.J. Stroud’s Pro Day. That contingent will now head to Alabama to meet with Young and see what he has to offer first-hand.
Boasting the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, there’s no real reason for Carolina to play its cards close to the vest. Of course, that’s assuming the team doesn’t fall in love with multiple quarterbacks and looks to trade back down from one. After Carolina made that blockbuster trade with Chicago, multiple leaks came out indicating that they could very well do just that.
Related: 2023 Carolina Panthers mock draft
The backdrop here is Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson set to take part on his Pro Day on March 30. Richardson has seen his stock rise big time since a stirring performance at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine late this past winter.
The next week-plus will be interesting for the Carolina Panthers in that who they send to Richardson’s Pro Day could provide us a tell. For now, it’s all a guessing game at the top of the 2023 NFL Draft.