Carolina Panthers add veteran presence to practice squad

The Carolina Panthers have added depth to their quarterback room by signing John Wolford to their practice squad, a move that reestablishes the connection between Wolford and head coach Dave Canales. This addition brings a familiar presence to the team, as Canales and Wolford previously worked together in Tampa Bay during the 2023 season. Canales, then the offensive coordinator for the Buccaneers, was impressed by Wolford’s grasp of the game and his on-field intelligence, attributes that he highly values.

Wolford’s signing comes at a critical juncture for the Panthers, who currently have Bryce Young and veteran Andy Dalton on their active roster. The team's practice squad already features undrafted rookie Jack Plummer, but the addition of Wolford provides another layer of experience and tactical awareness.

During his time with the Los Angeles Rams, Wolford demonstrated his capability to step up when called upon. He has started four games in his NFL career, compiling a 2-2 record. His performances were a mixed bag, with one touchdown pass and five interceptions, but his time as the primary backup during the Rams' Super Bowl-winning season in 2022 speaks to his readiness to handle high-pressure situations. It’s this experience, coupled with his sharp football mind, that likely made him an attractive option for the Panthers.

Dave Canales has not been shy about his admiration for Wolford. In an interview last year, Canales lauded Wolford as "hands down, the smartest guy in the room," praising his ability to anticipate plays and execute them flawlessly. Canales’ endorsement suggests that Wolford’s football IQ and decision-making skills will be an asset to the Panthers' quarterback room, providing valuable insight and support to both Bryce Young and Andy Dalton.

Wolford's journey to the NFL has been unconventional. After going undrafted in 2018, he initially signed with the New York Jets but found his first real opportunity with the Rams. His breakout moment came when he was thrust into the starting role due to injuries to then-starter Jared Goff. Although his stats don't jump off the page, Wolford's understanding of the game and ability to make quick decisions have kept him in the NFL conversation.

For the Panthers, signing Wolford isn't just about statistics or past performances; it's about bringing in a quarterback who can think critically and provide guidance, particularly to a young talent like Bryce Young. His presence on the practice squad will likely serve as a mentor to Young, helping him navigate the challenges of the NFL.

As the Panthers continue to shape their roster under the leadership of Dave Canales, the addition of John Wolford stands out as a strategic move. It reunites a coach and player who already have a strong working relationship and aligns with Canales' vision for the team. Wolford’s role may primarily be behind the scenes, but his impact could be felt both in the development of Bryce Young and in the stability of the Panthers' quarterback depth chart.

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