Stay or go? Carolina Panthers 2021 free agents on offense
By Dean Jones
What fate awaits the free agents on offense for the Carolina Panthers during what is expected to be another frenzied period of activity?
The Carolina Panthers have some big decisions to make regarding their free agents in the coming weeks. They have more than 20 players out of contract and it remains to be seen just how many will be given new deals with financial resources at a premium thanks to COVID-19 revenue losses.
This is a crucial offseason period for the Panthers, who made an encouraging start overall under Matt Rhule and could be a lively contender for a playoff place in 2021 if they get their recruitment right in free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft. The introduction of new general manager Scott Fitterer is another eye-catching addition to this process that shouldn’t be overlooked, so it promises to be another dramatic preparation period for everyone associated with the franchise.
Some personnel will be more of a priority than others.
There is also the possibility of a number of veterans being released ahead of time to free up some extra funds that would be better spent elsewhere. So everything really is hanging on a knife-edge regarding the short and long-term aspirations of the Panthers.
On this subject, we took a look at each free-agent Carolina has on offense and predict whether they will stay or go this spring.
Full Back
Alex Armah – Carolina Panthers FB
- Stay of Go? STAY
Full-back is a dying breed in today’s NFL. Teams are moving away from the stereotypical lead backfield blocker in favor of being more creative and using the position on another lineman or playmaker in the passing game. But the Carolina Panthers rely so much on Christian McCaffrey it might be worth keeping someone like Alex Armah around in the short-term.
It’s unlikely that Armah is going to command a significant extension and he did have some nice moments blocking last season. However, if the Panthers can get a better option at the same cost, letting the veteran walk will enter their discussion.
Keeping some sort of continuity is going to be key with so many changes elsewhere. This might see Armah given a one-year deal this spring.