There's no other way but up for the Carolina Panthers after finishing dead last in 2023.
That's the idea. However, there is also a possibility of going lower: 0-17.
The front office has been working to prevent another embarrassing season by surrounding their 2023 No. 1 pick, Bryce Young, with new pieces.
The most notable signing this week is Diontae Johnson, who they received from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Panthers accepted the deal by sending away cornerback Donte Jackson and a draft pick.
The exchange has yet to be made official, but Johnson already took to social media to pay tribute to the Steelers, which served as his first home after being drafted in 2019.
"5 years ago you brought me in and treated me like family from day one," he wrote.
"I will always be grateful for the memories made and relationships I will forever cherish. To my teammates, coaches, staff, and the fans who were there through the good and bad.. thank you for allowing me to grow into the man I am today."
What can Johnson bring to the table for the Panthers?
Johnson is a veteran who is known for his grit, which helped him rise to the surface of the Steelers' rotation as a 66th pick.
He started the 2023 season nursing several injuries but still managed to record five touchdown receptions and 717 receiving yards on 51 catches.
Read more: Joe Flacco Lands Lucrative Deal With New Team After Sensational Comeback Season in 2023
The Panthers' main wide receiver, Adam Thielen, also has experience, although he will turn 34 this year.
Thielen joined the Panthers by signing a three-year $25 million contract in March last year.
Thielen said last month that the Panthers' regime change could affect his standing with the team. However, he remains committed.
"I committed to bein' here for two years," he said via USA Today.
"When we kinda negotiated the contract, I was sayin' I wanna be here, I wanna be a part of something special, buildin' somethin' special. So I wanna uphold that commitment and I'm excited to see what that looks like."
Johnson and Thielen together is a good problem to have for head coach Dave Canales. What Thielen does not have, Johnson can provide.
In what way can Johnson improve the Panthers?
Johnson's best asset is his ability to create space for himself. In his first five seasons, he recorded 4,363 receiving yards on 391 catches and 25 touchdowns.
He earned praise from the Steelers coaching staff and teammates for route-running skills and natural ability to create separation from defenders.
Bryce Young needs someone like him to pass to. The rookie was 32nd in the NFL in yards per pass attempt, with an average of 5.5.
Johnson brings a deep threat that can pierce through the other end of the field.
Johnson does not improve the Panthers instantly. What he will affect directly is Bryce Young's development.
He will instantly be the No. 1 wideout, and with his route-running domination, Young can only get better next season. No way but up because they will push each other.
Related article: Are the Steelers Trying to Become the Next Legion of Boom Behind Russell Wilson and Patrick Queen Signings?
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