Should the Carolina Panthers consider signing Jake Ryan?

Should the Carolina Panthers consider bringing inside linebacker Jake Ryan to the franchise following his release by the Baltimore Ravens?

The Carolina Panthers could use some inside linebacker help ahead of the new season. And it just so happens that an intriguing player was recently released.

Jake Ryan’s time with the Baltimore Ravens came to an end this week when he was waived. There was some hope the player could make a push for the 53-man roster during training camp. But their loss could be the Carolina Panthers gain in this particular scenario.

The linebacker has not played in the NFL for the last two seasons. But that does not detract from his qualities.

His lack of game time is down in no small part to some serious injuries over the years. Ryan tore his ACL that forced him to miss the 2018 campaign. And he spent most of last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars on the reserve/non-football injury list.

The last time Ryan saw the field for any meaningful time was in 2017 with the Green Bay Packers. He recorded 81 combined tackles, 52 solo tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble on his way to an impressive 75.7 grade from Pro Football Focus.

There is just no telling what such injury problems have done to his overall ability to remain healthy and become a valued contributor. That being said, the Panthers are devoid of depth at the position behind No. 1 option Tahir Whitehead. And bringing Ryan in to compete during training camp would not be the worst move in the world.

Could Jake Ryan be of use to the Carolina Panthers?

Whether Jake Ryan can prove his worth on the field is up for debate. Missing so much time through injury has undoubtedly had a devastating impact on his overall progression. And he is running out of chances to make a success of his career.

The Ravens have some strong options at the position that were enhanced by their selection of former LSU standout Patrick Queen. This left Ryan on the outside looking in and he was subsequently moved on.

This is not a luxury the Carolina Panthers have at the present time. They lost legendary figure Luke Kuechly to retirement this offseason. And the jury is still out on Andre Smith’s ability to be a productive presence on the roster.

The extra competition for places during camp would be welcome. This would bring an increased sense of urgency and if Ryan could impress in a short space of time. Then he could become a wildcard to make the 53-man roster.

Carolina’s situation is much different from the one Baltimore finds itself in. They have a loaded roster that has Super Bowl ambitions in 2020, whereas the Panthers are in the first stages of a rebuild after making wholesale changes to their lineup.

Ryan should be entering his prime this season. Instead, injuries might have robbed him of his best years. And it is going to take a huge effort from the player to earn a roster spot anywhere in 2020.

He does have an eye-catching skillset when firing on all cylinders. And if these problems are behind him then the Panthers should consider bringing him in at little cost financially.