6 projections for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 free agency
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers sign Leonard Williams
- four years, $80 million ($20M APY): $47.5M total guaranteed, $32.5M fully guaranteed at signing.
The Carolina Panthers made some improvements on defense as the season went on. They could become a special unit with more development and a couple of reinforcements during free agency or the 2021 NFL Draft, which would only strengthen their claims of a potential playoff push next time around.
Leonard Williams – who is ranked No. 20 on Pro Football Focus’ free-agent list – definitely fits the bill. The versatile defensive lineman can operate either on the edge or as a three-technique on the interior, something the Panthers could do with moving forward.
Finding a long-term partner for stud rookie Derrick Brown is going to be key. The No. 7 overall selection in 2020 enjoyed a fine campaign despite not having veteran Pro Bowler Kawann Short alongside him at the defensive tackle position and if Carolina secures the services of Williams as projected, it is going to make their defensive front a force to be reckoned with.
Williams was playing on the franchise tag with the New York Giants and played a leading role in a positive campaign overall for the organization. He managed an astonishing 11.5 sacks playing from the inside, coupled with 57 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 30 quarterback hits, 41 pressures, just two missed tackles and a lofty 79.8 grade from PFF.
Getting the former USC star to Carolina won’t be cheap. But there is little doubt Williams could make a substantial difference.