Carolina Panthers promote from within
There are some options on the current roster that the Carolina Panthers can use as a replacement for Kawann Short. This is something they were forced to do in 2020 after the veteran went to the reserve/injured list ahead of Week 6 and the group made some encouraging strides as the campaign wore on.
Carolina got some nice production from free-agent signing Zach Kerr and sixth-round pick Bravvion Roy alongside Derrick Brown, who proved to everybody he was more than worthy of the No. 7 overall selection despite being one of the NFL’s most double-teamed players at the position.
Another contribution that shouldn’t go overlooked was that of Efe Obada. The Nigerian-born lineman was released early in the season but made the most out of a second chance, coming up with 5.5 sacks and making an eye-catching impression as a three-technique in obvious pass-rushing downs.
Providing Obada is brought back on a team-friendly deal in free agency, this trio has the scope to be even better in 2021. If Yetur Gross-Matos can provide pressure opposite Brian Burns during his sophomore campaign on the edge, it could become an area of real strength even without the presence of Short.
A couple of new additions would help. But the Panthers might just rotate what they have following their respective level of performances last time out.