Stay or go? Carolina Panthers 2021 free agents on offense
By Dean Jones
Mike Davis – Carolina Panthers RB
- Stay or Go? STAY
Mike Davis proved highly valuable to the Carolina Panthers in 2020. Things could have looked far worse with Christian McCaffrey turning out in just three games due to shoulder, ankle, and quad problems. But the veteran stepped into the breach and played extremely well as a No. 1 running back.
Davis worked hard to earn the primary backup role in training camp and thrived with some extra responsibility in McCaffrey’s absence. The former South Carolina standout went over 1,000 yards from scrimmage and if the season taught the Panthers anything, it’s that they need a solid option in case their star player falls foul of injury in the coming years.
Much will depend on the finances involved. Davis made $3 million in base salary in 2020 and there might be a few teams looking in his direction to boost their own depth. So while Carolina is keen to keep him, they shouldn’t be held to ransom.
Chris Manhertz – Carolina Panthers TE
The Panthers need to get better across their tight end unit in free agency or the 2021 NFL Draft. Parting ways with veteran Pro Bowler Greg Olsen was a mistake in hindsight and a prominent pass-catcher or two across the middle is going to be crucial to their plans.
This will leave Chris Manhertz on the outside looking in. He is a formidable blocking presence on the edge, of that there is little doubt. But his limitations are there for all to see.