Carolina Panthers: New defensive tackle is staring them in the face

Could the Carolina Panthers’ new defensive tackle be staring them straight in the face following the recent release of Jarran Reed?

The Carolina Panthers have focused heavily on improving their defense during free agency so far. They’ve done a nice job of picking up some impact players on good deals that leaves enough in the way of financial resources to make another splash should the opportunity arise, which has now presented itself in no uncertain terms.

Jarran Reed was released by the Seattle Seahawks after the organization failed to find a trade partner. This should have more than a few teams sit up and take notice after the defensive tackle produced some phenomenal numbers in 2020, with Scott Fitterer knowing plenty about the player from his time working with the NFC West organization.

Carolina’s new general manager has gone back to his former employers once during the offseason by bringing David Moore to the Panthers. And make no mistake, Fitterer should be putting a call in Reed’s direction to give the defensive front another substantial shot in the arm.

The Panthers have signed Morgan Fox and Haason Reddick to boost their pass-rush. But adding a more stereotypical interior lineman to put alongside No. 7 overall selection Derrick Brown could make all the difference.

Much will depend on the finances involved and whether a contending team represents a better option for the former second-round pick. However, if there is mutual interest then Carolina should pull the trigger.