5 NFC South free agents the Panthers can purge in 2021
By Dean Jones
Lavonte David – LB
Losing such an iconic figure such as Luke Kuechly was always going to come with its own set of substantial complications. The linebacker was the heartbeat of the Carolina Panthers and his absence was only made worse by the inept play of free-agent signing Tahir Whitehead during the first half of the campaign.
Things got better when Jermaine Carter was slotted into the starting lineup. But whether he’s done enough to convince the coaching staff he can be a long-term solution is up for debate.
If general manager Scott Fitterer wants to bring in a proven player, then Lavonte David should be high on the shortlist. His experience marshaling the Buccaneers defense has been exemplary for a number of years now and despite being on the wrong side of 30, he shows no signs of slowing down.
Carolina’s defense came on leaps and bounds as the campaign wore on. Young prospects like Jeremy Chinn and Derrick Brown stepped up and made an immediate contribution, so if they can develop yet against during the 2021 preparation period and sign a couple of upgrades at certain spots, then it could become one of the NFL’s best units.
If David did end up with the Panthers, it’s hard to gauge just what sort of lift it would give everybody. Kuechly was one of the most clued-up players that have ever stepped onto the gridiron, but the current Bucs’ defensive leader possesses a lot of the same traits and would be a welcome addition if the price is right.