Carolina Panthers: 4 free agents for wish list on defense in 2021

Which four players should be on the Carolina Panthers’ wish list on defense during the 2021 free agency period?

The Carolina Panthers have laid the foundations of their substantial rebuild. But they face another crucial offseason period in 2021 as they look to become a contender once again.

New head coach Matt Rhule has built up a fantastic reputation of turning around struggling college programs. And the Carolina Panthers laid out a significant financial commitment in the hope he can continue this trend at the professional level.

This will be easier said than done given the difficult start Rhule has had to his time at the helm due to the current climate. Nothing much is expected of the Panthers in 2020. But they will still need to show enough in order to become an attractive proposition for free agents next spring.

Carolina will have more financial resources at their disposal next year. But this is set to drop considerably thanks to the decrease in revenue that teams across the league will suffer next season. Big sacrifices will need to be made. And the front office has another huge job on their hands to manage the expected reduction in salary cap flexibility.

There are plenty of positions that need reinforcements if the Panthers want to take that next step for a postseason tilt once again. And this is especially evident on the defensive side of the ball.

The Panthers are going into the campaign with a roster that looks devoid of any real starting experience. They do have a nice spine and a defensive line that could do some damage. But there is uncertainty surrounding their linebacker and cornerback groups after some key departures.

Here are four players that we picked for our free-agent wish list on defense in 2021.