Carolina Panthers: 3 trade targets from the Los Angeles Rams
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers trade target No. 2: Brian Allen (C)
The Carolina Panthers have plenty of questions to answer regarding their offensive line in 2020. They will potentially have three new starters. And the team has another huge cause for concern in the form of center Matt Paradis.
Much was expected of the offensive lineman when he joined the Panthers on a three-year, $29 million contract. But to say Paradis failed to live up to his billing in 2019 would be something of an understatement.
Another poor season next time around would force the Panthers to move on. The organization will be hoping last season was simply a blip. And new quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will be counting on Paradis to provide adequate protection and communication to ensure the former first-round pick gets the best possible chance to make an impression under center.
A lack of competition behind Paradis might have led to some complacency. Only Tyler Larsen would have a realistic chance of making the depth chart behind him. Although there is a lot to admire about the potential surrounding undrafted free-agent Frederick Mauigoa.
If they choose to bring in someone else via the trade market, then Brian Allen is worth considering. The Michigan State product performed well in his first taste of prominent starting action in 2019, giving up one sack and five penalties from 563 snaps.
Allen will benefit a tremendous amount from this experience. But with Austin Blythe projected to fill the No. 1 role, there might be an opening for the Panthers to bring the player in at a bargain price.