5 dream free-agent targets for the Carolina Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
Leonard Williams – DT
- 2020 team – New York Giants
The Carolina Panthers made some encouraging strides along their defensive front as the season wore on. But with Kawann Short and Stephen Weatherly no longer on the roster, there need to be some slight adjustments to the depth chart to ensure this unit keeps trending in the right direction.
Derrick Brown proved he was the right pick at No. 7 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. The defensive tackle grew in stature and proved he belongs at the next level with some dominant displays despite being one of the most double-teamed players at the position in Short’s absence.
However, just what the long-term plan is alongside Brown remains to be seen.
Bravvion Roy, Zach Kerr, and Efe Obada all had some nice moments next to the former Auburn standout throughout the campaign. However, whether a more prolific presence is needed will be entirely down to coach staff perceptions.
If they choose to make a big splash in free agency, then Leonard Williams will be high on the shortlist. The experienced figure did his chances of a big contract no harm at all with the New York Giants last time out and his physicality and athleticism are two traits Carolina sought heavily during their recruitment process in the first year of Matt Rhule’s reign.
Getting Williams to the Panthers won’t be cheap. But a potential partnership between the free-agent and Brown would be a nightmare to stop.