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

Carolina Panthers Player No. 2: Stephen Weatherly – DE

This is Stephen Weatherly’s opportunity to prove he is more than just a rotational rusher. The free-agent signing has worked hard to earn a starting spot with the Carolina Panthers. And this could see his production increase considerably.

Weatherly caught the eye in no uncertain terms as the primary backup to Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen with the Minnesota Vikings. This earned him a two-year, $12.5 million deal with the Panthers this offseason. And there is just no telling how much more he can develop with additional time on the field.

Although the former seventh-round pick has never achieved more than three sacks during his career. There is every chance that this number could skyrocket in 2020.

There will be space aplenty to work in thanks to the presence of Kawann Short and Derrick Brown. And this is something the player has to make the most of.

The addition of Yetur Gross-Matos might seem like a lack of confidence in Weatherly’s long-term aspirations. But Carolina lost some considerable depth at the position this offseason.

They made the defensive end their biggest free-agent acquisition on this side of the ball. And it would be a big surprise if Weatherly did not end up making a telling contribution to the Panthers’ front seven next season and possibly beyond.

Prediction: 9.0 sacks