In the quest for offensive improvement, Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper has made a significant decision regarding the future of his team. Tepper's desire to see progress on offense led to the firing of head coach Frank Reich, a move that was influenced by the early success of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud.

According to sources within the Panthers organization, Tepper's decision was driven by the pressure and frustrations of witnessing Stroud's impressive performance. This move reflects the owner's determination to turn the team's offense around. However, the struggles of No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young have only added to the unrest in Carolina.

Despite trading up to select Young in the April draft, the Panthers coaching staff contemplated benching the rookie in favor of veteran quarterback Andy Dalton as early as Week 5. Some believed that Young needed more coaching and development, while others felt that a change was necessary for the team's short-term success. However, the Panthers ultimately decided to stick with Young and focus on his growth within the offense.

Multiple sources indicate that there is still faith within the Panthers organization that Young has the potential to become an exceptional quarterback. The team recognizes that Young requires better protection and improved weapons to thrive. Particularly, there is a need to protect the middle of the pocket as Young's height of 5-10 puts him at a disadvantage in that area.

Amidst these coaching changes and quarterback struggles, Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has not been approached by Tepper to assume the position of interim head coach, as per a league source. Evero, who declined a similar role in Denver after the firing of Nathaniel Hackett, is believed to have potential head coach opportunities outside of Carolina in the near future.

Looking ahead, Tepper is reportedly eyeing Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as a potential candidate for the Panthers coaching staff. While the attempt to hire Johnson in the past was unsuccessful, a league source suggests that Johnson may be ready for a head coaching job now and could be a top coaching candidate in 2024.

Tepper's determination to revamp the Panthers offense and bring about change is evident in his pursuit of improvement. As the season progresses, the Panthers face the challenge of finding the right balance between teaching and developing Young while striving for immediate success.

In other NFL news, speculation surrounding potential coaching and general manager changes has intensified. The future of Bears quarterback Justin Fields and head coach Matt Eberflus hangs in the balance, while the Cleveland Browns organization stands firmly behind head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry.

For half the league, discussions about what lies ahead in 2024 have already begun. In five weeks, it is expected that multiple coaching and general manager positions will open up, leading to a potential major overhaul for several teams.

As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, teams are exploring all avenues to strengthen their rosters. Free agent linebacker Shaquille Leonard is being courted by the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, both of whom see him as a valuable addition to their respective defenses. Leonard, who passed his physicals with both teams, is expected to make a decision after the Eagles' game against the 49ers this Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Eagles' "tush push" play has drawn attention and debate among league officials and team representatives. The controversial play has yet to be formally brought as a playing rule proposal, but NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is said to be in favor of removing it from the game permanently.

Minnesota Vikings fans can breathe a sigh of relief as star receiver Justin Jefferson is set to return to the field after a couple of weeks of rest. Jefferson is expected to practice in full during the team's bye week and should be ready to face the Raiders in Week 14. The lingering question remains as to who will be throwing the ball to him, with Josh Dobbs and Nick Mullens being considered as potential options.

Lastly, the New York Jets received a surprise visit from quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who entertained a customer at the ticket sales office with an impromptu sales pitch. Rodgers, who has been cleared to return to practice after recovering from a torn Achilles, is eyeing a comeback for the Christmas Eve game against the Commanders. While the decision remains contingent on the Jets' playoff chances, Rodgers is eager to make a triumphant return and lead his team to success.

As the NFL season unfolds, the league is filled with anticipation and speculation about what the future holds for teams, coaches, and players alike.