Matt Paradis: Under the radar Carolina Panthers offseason addition
The Carolina Panthers addition of center Matt Paradis appears to be a distant memory.
When Carolina Panthers center Ryan Kalil announced his plans for retirement following the 2018 season, everyone knew it would leave a huge gap in the offensive line. After playing in only 14 games during the two years prior, Kalil was one of the more consistent players on an offensive line riddled with injuries during his final campaign.
Holding true to his word, Kalil left Carolina after his twelfth NFL season, all with the Panthers, and other than current backup Tyler Larsen sliding into the role, general manager Marty Hurney and coach Ron Rivera had few options for a replacement.
A five time Pro Bowl nominee who was twice a first-team All Pro, Kalil established himself as one of the best centers in the game. Once the free agent signing period began, Hurney made a splash move by landing Denver Broncos center Matt Paradis. At the time it generated a few headlines but as the offseason transpired, other moves made by Carolina appeared to overshadow his addition.
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A defensive front overhaul taking place since Paradis was signed is largely to blame. Just about a week later Carolina added veteran hybrid defender Bruce Irvin, before getting Florida State stand out Brian Burns in the draft and capping off their additions with Gerald McCoy – a six-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle who averages just over six sacks per season.
Paradis, who was in the midst of another great year during 2018, suffered a fractured fibula and the Broncos apparently had concerns about his health moving forward. Hurney took a risk but it could pay huge dividends for the Panthers in the long run if he returns to a similar level of play.
Not only was Paradis a staple up front for the Broncos but he also served as a team captain. While Carolina returns a majority of former locker room leaders – Cam Newton, Greg Olsen, Luke Kuechly and Colin Jones – they did lose both Kalil and Julius Peppers to retirement. Having another experienced player at such a pivotal position could now be a key addition in a variety of ways despite Paradis being a new face.
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Seemingly overshadowed now, expect Paradis to become a household name very soon.