3 free-agents who could start for the Panthers in 2020

Carolina Panthers Player No. 3: Everson Griffen (DE)

Although the Carolina Panthers’ defensive front looks to be an area of real strength. There are a couple of veteran players on the free-agent market that would give the unit another significant boost.

One such player is Everson Griffen, who reached his targets to opt-out on his deal with the Minnesota Vikings. But he has yet to find another home to call his own despite plenty of interest.

Griffen has overcome some personal difficulties to resume his career in recent years. And this has come with an outstanding level of production alongside Pro Bowl pass-rusher Danielle Hunter.

The former USC standout has amassed 74.5 sacks, 258 solo tackles, 176 quarterback hits, 896 tackles for loss, nine forced fumbles, and 16 pass deflections during a sensational career to date. And judging by his efforts in 2019, there could be more to come before he eventually hangs up his cleats.

Any potential move for Griffen would not go down particularly well with Stephen Weatherly. The player arrived in Carolina on a two-year, $12 million deal after playing well as a backup to the four-time Pro Bowler in Minnesota. And the prospect of doing this again was not what was originally sold to the defensive end when he agreed to join the organization.

Having Griffen would not only provide the Panthers with another quality weapon getting to the quarterback. But his professionalism and leadership should also be of use for young rookie Yetur Gross-Matos to learn from as he looks to make a similar sort of impact during his career.