4 questions the Panthers must answer before 2021 NFL Draft

Can the Carolina Panthers re-sign Taylor Moton?

Of all the big decisions facing the Carolina Panthers this offseason, extending Taylor Moton should be one of the easiest. The right tackle is unquestionably one of the best edge protectors around and can be a cornerstone to build around in the coming weeks with so much uncertainty at other positions on the offensive line.

Moton’s technique is flawless at this point. He coped with some of the most ferocious pass-rushers in the league with ease during the campaign and although keeping him around long-term won’t be cheap, it’s something the Panthers simply have to do.

If an acceptable agreement cannot be reached, then Carolina also has the option of placing the franchise tag on Moton to prevent him from hitting the free-agent market. There would be no shortage of suitors for the former second-round pick if the Panthers inexcusably let him walk and replacing him with their current financial constraints would be almost impossible.

With John Miller, Chris Reed, and Russell Okung also out of contract, coupled with the very real possibility of Matt Paradis being released to free up additional money, it makes tying Moton down even more imperative.

This should be done either way in plenty of time for the 2021 NFL Draft. It’s a deep class for offensive linemen and the Panthers should make the most of it with multiple picks to bolster their ability to protect whoever is under center.