5 free agents the Panthers missed out on in 2020
By Dean Jones
Kyle Van Noy – LB
Kyle Van Noy’s versatility and ability to perform on the big stage made him a perfect fit at the New England Patriots. The former Detroit Lions standout enjoyed a prolific career with the franchise that also included a Super Bowl triumph.
The linebacker made the controversial move to remain in the AFC East with the Miami Dolphins on a four-year, $51 million contract that included a $12 million signing bonus and $30 million in guaranteed money.
Getting Van Noy is seen as a real coup by the Dolphins and one that the Carolina Panthers might regret not looking into. They are now without the services of perennial All-Pro Luke Kuechly following his shock retirement and this has left a gaping hole at the second level of their defense.
Van Noy would have filled some of the void left by Kuechly. Although someone like the legendary linebacker is never going to be fully replaced. He enjoyed a fine 2019 with the Patriots on his way to 6.5 sacks, 56 combined tackles, three forced fumbles, and three pass deflections.
The player has no problem playing on the outside or at middle linebacker. Van Noy is also a vocal leader within the locker room that could have benefitted the Panthers enormously given the number of influential veterans that have left during the offseason.