Assembling a dream starting Panthers offense for 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers offensive line
- Liam Eichenberg – LT
- Joe Thuney – G
- Matt Paradis – C
- Trey Hill – G
- Taylor Moton – RT
Getting better protection for whoever is under center in 2021 is going to be crucial. The Carolina Panthers once again struggled in this area last season and some big changes are on the horizon that could see three new starters on their offensive line.
Carolina now has enough in the way of financial resources to extend stud right tackle Taylor Moton, who is among the best in the business protecting the edge and is as consistent as they come.
If terms cannot be agreed, then he’ll be franchise-tagged.
But he is not leaving the Panthers in 2021.
Matt Paradis recently restricted his deal to save Carolina almost $5 million in salary-cap space, which might also ensure he’s still on the roster next season. The former Boise State player has gone through his fair share of struggles since joining the organization, but those alongside him at guard weren’t exactly stellar, to say the least.
It would be a huge surprise if the Panthers didn’t use a few picks on improving this area of the field considering how deep this draft class is for offensive linemen. Someone like Notre Dame’s Liam Eichenberg looks to have plug-and-play potential at left tackle and Tennessee’s Trey Hill comes with some tremendous upside in the mid-rounds.
Another veteran will be needed. So providing the money is there, making a move for Joe Thuney would transform their fortunes. The Super Bowl winner’s time with the New England Patriots seems to be over and although he’ll be in high demand, Carolina would benefit enormously from his presence on the interior.