3 questions at safety for the Carolina Panthers in 2020

Can Tre Boston become the defensive lynchpin?

The Carolina Panthers went their separate ways with plenty of established veterans this offseason. But they were shrewd enough to realize just how important Tre Boston is to their chances of success going forward.

Boston made the very most out of his second chance with the organization in 2019. He was one of the NFL’s most clutch defenders in the face of some concerted pressure throughout. And his reputation received a substantial boost thanks to this supreme level of consistency.

The Panthers recognized this and handed Boston a three-year, $18 million contract extension with an $8 million signing bonus and a further $8 million guaranteed. This will come with its own expectations. But given the injection of youth across the defense. The former fourth-round pick will need to step up and become a leader next time around.

This is already something that is apparent when one examines the way Boston has conducted himself this offseason. He was at the forefront of the team’s movement to support social injustice. And his vocal nature has been evident throughout the early portion of training camp.

There is an argument to be made for Boston becoming the most important member of Carolina’s defense in 2020. Young players will be looking to him for advice and guidance on the backend. And his presence must also be felt considerably within the locker room.

This is a lot to ask of Boston. But it is a challenge he is sure to relish.