Panthers' Patience Could Backfire on Key Player's Contract

Panthers WR Diontae Johnson is one of the team's biggest 'X-Factors' entering the new year, determined to earn a hefty contract extension with a bounce-back season.

His skillset should perfectly complement QB Bryce Young and Carolina's offense, so much so that Joseph Person of The Athletic called Johnson the most intriguing contract extension candidate to watch. If the Panthers found a great value in Johnson, the entire offense could open up around Young.

Considering the massive deals handed out to receivers this offseason, Johnson has an opportunity to secure tremendous wealth from the rebuilding Panthers.

Panthers WR Diontae Johnson's Contract Negotiations 'Worth Watching'

Johnson reached the Pro Bowl in 2021, catching 107 passes for 1,161 yards and eight TDs. He's failed to reach those heights since, though I blame Pittsburgh's disastrous QB situation for the underwhelming production.

Still an elite separator, Johnson's stats should improve provided Young isn't one of the worst passers in the sport like Kenny Pickett was.

Person writes, "Johnson could only watch while the wide receiver market exploded over the last month, hoping his payday would come later. The Panthers made no move to extend Johnson after trading for the former Pittsburgh Steelers wideout in March, preferring to see whether he emerges as the explosive, coverage-separating receiver Bryce Young and the offense lacked last year."

Should Johnson accomplish that goal? He'll expect to be paid accordingly. Only 27 years old, Johnson is entering his prime. Alongside rookie Xavier Legette, Johnson could be a foundational piece of this offense as Dave Canales leaves his mark on the team.

Of course, the Panthers are taking a risk by letting Johnson play without an extension. If he returns to the 1,000-yard player he was a couple of years ago, it'll be significantly more expensive for Carolina to retain him. They'll have the cap space, but it's a gamble nonetheless.

In a perfect world, Johnson will prove he's deserving of a contract though won't perform so well that he breaks the bank. After the extension? Then Johnson can feel free to make a run at an All-Pro nomination.

Either way, Panthers fans should pay close attention to how Johnson looks at training camp and the early portion of the regular season.

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