3 reasons Denzel Perryman can be Luke Kuechly’s successor

Denzel Perryman could be the man to replace linebacker Luke Kuechly long-term after signing for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 free agency.

The Carolina Panthers made their shrewdest acquisition of free agency so far when they signed Denzel Perryman, who arrives from the Los Angeles Chargers on a two-year deal. This is set to give their linebacker corps a massive shot in the arm after the defense found life difficult for the most part in this particular area following the shock retirement of Luke Kuechly.

While someone who contributed as much as the perennial All-Pro can never truly be replaced, Perryman seems like just the sort of player that could fill the gaping void on a long-term basis. His level of production for the Chargers over the last few seasons has been exemplary and there is a big chance the best is yet to come with more in the way of starting reps.

The former second-round pick has suffered his fair share of injury complications throughout his career. But he managed 13 games in 2020 – starting six – and providing there aren’t any complications once the player gets to Carolina, they’ll have one tremendous talent on their hands.

Much more will be needed if the Panthers want to be considered as realistic postseason challengers next season. However, a slow start to free agency has been ignited by the signing of Perryman, who promises to bring a significant amount to a young defense that made some real strides as the campaign wore on.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some reasons why Perryman could become Kuechly’s long-term successor in Carolina.