The veteran quarterback threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns in the win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Dalton immediately clicked with Diontae Johnson and was able to bring a handful of other pass-catchers into Dave Canales’ fold.

Suddenly, Carolina has a competent offense and Dalton looks like a solid fantasy football backup quarterback.

No one will tell you that Dalton is a clear-cut starting quarterback in fantasy football circles, but with free agency starting in Week 5, it’s a smart idea to pick him up now so you’re prepared for the first round of free agency.