Sack projections for the Panthers’ top 8 pass-rushers in 2020

(Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) Brian Burns
(Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) Brian Burns /
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Carolina Panthers
(Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) Efe Obada /

We took a look at the pass-rushing options available to the Carolina Panthers and projected their sack totals next season.

The Carolina Panthers might have lost some prominent members of their defensive front this offseason. But they still appear loaded with players who can make a real difference.

This was an area of the field that generated plenty of sacks in 2019. But did not have a massive impact on their overall fortunes.

Substantial moves were made in a bid to turn this around. And the onus will be on others to step up and fill the void left by veterans who were perhaps past the peak of their powers.

It has left defensive coordinator Phil Snow with an athletic and versatile group. But they will need to hit the ground running to take the pressure off their suspect secondary and give them a chance of remaining competitive.

There is plenty to like about the options available for the Panthers in 2020. This should result in some quality improvements across the board. And Carolina’s offseason objective of building from the inside out is a strong foundation on their way to becoming a contender again in the not-too-distant future.

We took a closer look at the Panthers’ primary pass-rushing options and predicted just what sort of sack totals they can generate next season.

Carolina Panthers Player No. 8: Efe Obada – DL

Much will depend on just how much Efe Obada sees the field for the Panthers in 2020. But the coaching staff likes his versatility to play anywhere across the defensive front.

This will stand the player in good stead as he looks to make his presence felt. And although he is still a little raw. There is little disputing his outstanding athletic gifts.

Obada did not record a sack from limited action in 2019. But the player could start trending on an upward curve providing he gets some more opportunities.

Prediction: 2.0 sacks

Carolina Panthers Player No. 7: Marquis Haynes – EDGE

Marquis Haynes harbors strong ambitions to secure the other outside linebacker spot opposite Shaq Thompson in 2020. This is something well within his reach with a strong showing at training camp. And it is clear he has done a significant amount of positive work on improving his physique during the offseason.

This is a critical third year for Haynes as he looks to make more of an impact with the Panthers in 2020. Opportunities like this do not come around too often in the NFL. And it is vital the former fourth-round pick makes the most of it.

If he can get a starting chance, then it could result in a huge increase in production. Haynes will get plenty of space to work in. And this is something else he has in his favor.

Prediction: 3.5 sacks