Three biggest moves of Carolina Panthers busy offseason

Bruce Irvin

At first glance, the signing of Bruce Irvin is not exactly the most major move of the offseason. However, for a defensive end position that is looking to get youth at the spot, he could be a huge signing. After notching 6.5 sacks last season, Irvin should definitely add continued veteran leadership at the position.

There has been talk of the Carolina Panthers getting younger at defensive end in the draft. In addition to his stellar play, Irvin could be a mentor to some of the younger players on the line. Brian Cox is a player that is going to benefit from Irvin’s presence the most. Even if he doesn’t put up tremendous numbers, the signing of Irvin will hopefully be worth it for his ability to mentor some of the younger guys. Irvin has already stated that he wants to mentor Cox and that should be a great partnership moving forward.

There is also talk of either Montez Sweat or Brian Burns coming to the Carolina Panthers via the 16th overall pick in the draft. If either one of them comes here, they will, at the very least, have a chance to compete for the starting spot at the position. It is an urgent need. Irvin could help mentor them as well. There is a very good chance that by the time training camp starts, the defensive end position depth will go from thin to plentiful.

Aside from just mentoring, if he can give the Panthers the production he had in 2018, Irvin should be a low-risk, high-reward signing. His combination of veteran leadership and aggressive play make him one of the more underrated and essential signings of the offseason as it stands right now. Marty Hurney made a great move with this signing.