5 AFC West free agents the Carolina Panthers might target in 2021

Which AFC West free agents might become targets for the Carolina Panthers this offseason?

The AFC West has plenty of intriguing free agents that the Carolina Panthers might be monitoring closely this offseason. They have freed-up enough in the way of financial resources to make a couple of notable signings to boost their chances of a postseason push in 2021. But considering how precarious things are entering year No. 2 of Matt Rhule’s rebuild, it’s important for the organization to get almost every decision right in the coming weeks.

Much of the attention is centering on Carolina’s attempts to get an upgrade on quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. However, focusing too much on this vital position could mean some complications in other areas that need addressing.

New general manager Scott Fitterer is being thrown in at the deep end, which is something he probably expected. The Panthers made a solid if not spectacular start under Rhule in 2020, but it’s evident much more is needed if owner David Tepper wants a legitimate Super Bowl contender to market sooner rather than later.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at five potential new recruits that plied their trade in a very talented AFC West division last time around.

Player No. 1

Denzelle Good – G

• 2020 team – Las Vegas Raiders

Although Denzelle Good has never reached the heights of his promising rookie campaign, there is plenty to like about his ability to make an immediate contribution for the Carolina Panthers in this scenario. They are expected to be on the lookout for substantial reinforcements on their offensive line in free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft, so they could do far worse than look in his direction.

Good has been a consistent performer for the Las Vegas Raiders in recent years and really caught the eye as a member of the Indianapolis Colts for a brief period. The former Mars Hill standout is an imposing figure who’s worked exceptionally hard to carve out a successful career after coming into the NFL as a seventh-round pick, which is the sort of mindset Carolina sought heavily during their recruitment process last spring.

The Panthers will surely acquire a young plug-and-play starter from a deep draft class. But a solid veteran like Good would also do their chances of improved protection the world of good.