Overview
Despite finishing the 2025-26 season with an 8-9 record, the Panthers’ offense showed notable inconsistencies. The front office has focused this offseason on streamlining the attack, maximizing strengths, and correcting what didn’t click in 2024. A key area of emphasis has been to bolster short-yardage efficiency and red-zone production, where Carolina ranked among the league’s lower tiers.
Key findings from the season
– The Panthers ranked 31st in the NFL in rushing attempts from inside the five-yard line, totaling just nine such carries all year. This statistic highlighted both a struggle to get inside close-range yardage and a reluctance to commit to runs in those situations.
– In terms of rushing touchdowns from inside the five-yard line, Carolina recorded only six, tying for 23rd in the league. Even in short-yardage scenarios that didn’t require a goal-line push, the Panthers totaled only around 100 rushing attempts for four yards or fewer to go, again placing them near the bottom of the league.
– These numbers indicate a need for a more aggressive, multiple-faceted approach in short-yardage and goal-line play-calling, with personnel best suited for powering through compact defenses.
Two offseason additions that could shift the approach
1) AJ Dillon, running back
– Dillon is a powerful, downhill runner known for converting short-yardage opportunities into first downs and touchdowns. In his last fully healthy season (2022 with the Green Bay Packers), Dillon posted 48 carries with four or fewer yards to go, resulting in 31 first downs and four touchdowns.
– His extra mass, leg drive, and contact balance make him a natural fit for close-range carries, giving the Panthers a bruiser presence that defenses must account for near the goal line.
– The addition of Dillon provides the Panthers with a proven option who can shoulder the heavy workload on short-yardage downs, complementing other backs and spreading out defensive looks.
2) Haynes King, quarterback
– King brings a dual-threat element to short-yardage packages. At Georgia Tech, he was a prolific contributor in quarterback-running situations, compiling 37 career rushing touchdowns and earning numerous first downs on quarterback runs.
– If King earns a roster spot, the Panthers could implement QB sneak variants and mobile-quarterback packages that exploit defenses focusing on the backfield. This can create misdirection and additional ways to convert short-yardage plays without over-relying on a single approach.
– King’s presence as a run option can diversify Carolina’s short-yardage playbook, making it harder for defenses to predict the next play.
Strategic implications and potential package ideas
– Power-rotating backfield: With Dillon’s power running and King’s mobility, Carolina can deploy a variety of backfield looks on critical downs. For example, under-center QB sneaks with King or heavy personnel packages featuring Dillon and a couple of blockers could create favorable angles for a yard or two to go.
– Zone-read and quarterback keepers: Incorporating King into zone-read concepts in short-yardage situations keeps the defense guessing and can open up lanes for Dillon to punch through.
– Red-zone emphasis: The Panthers should practice integrated plays that leverage Dillon’s short-yardage chops, King’s athleticism, and the offensive line’s improved health to maximize conversions inside the red zone.
– Personnel on the 53-man roster: Keeping Dillon and King on the active roster provides a reliable foundation for a more aggressive short-yardage plan. Their presence allows Canales to tailor play-calling to leverage both power and misdirection.
What to monitor moving forward
– Health and line play: Improvements on the offensive line can further enhance short-yardage success. A healthy line reduces pressure on backs and increases the effectiveness of designed runs.
– Depth behind Dillon: A capable backup who can contribute on short-yardage downs will help maintain momentum when Dillon rotates out or is unavailable.
– King’s roster status and integration: If King earns a roster spot, the coaching staff should develop a clear, disciplined plan for his role in goal-line and short-yardage plays, avoiding over-extension and ensuring he remains effective in key moments.
Bottom line
Addressing short-yardage and goal-line struggles will require a combination of stout, physical running and smart, versatile quarterback elements. The addition of AJ Dillon as a power option and Haynes King as a mobile quarterback threat provides Carolina with the tools to recalibrate its approach in these crucial situations. With a focused game plan and improved line health, the Panthers could raise their efficiency in short-yardage plays and convert more opportunities when it matters most.
