4 Panthers players who should retire after the 2020 season

Tahir Whitehead – Carolina Panthers LB

Tahir Whitehead might not see another opportunity in the NFL after a disastrous season with the Carolina Panthers. There was a lot to like about his ability to step in and fill the void left by perennial All-Pro Luke Kuechly on a short-term basis after reuniting with his former college coach Matt Rhule this offseason. But things just haven’t panned out as all parties would have hoped.

The linebacker made a huge impression at training camp and was named a team captain by his peers. However, it didn’t take long to realize that Whitehead was a shell of his former self and not the answer Carolina needed at the position.

This might be a little harsh on Whitehead.

But the film doesn’t lie.

Whitehead was as lackluster in coverage as he’s even been during his career. This was matched by a lack of production in run support that was one of the real features of his success during his time with the Las Vegas Raiders in the two seasons prior to this one.

Carolina’s production at the second level has improved dramatically since Whitehead was removed from the lineup. He is more than a yard off both physically and mentally, so when this happens it naturally should come with thinking about retirement.