3 positions where signing a free-agent makes sense for the Panthers

Offensive tackle

The Carolina Panthers did not move up in the third round to acquire Brady Christensen for the offensive lineman to sit on the sidelines. His level of production at BYU in 2020 was nothing short of outstanding and if this can make a smooth transition to the NFL, they are going to have a real player on their hands.

There are some concerns about Christensen’s length once he gets to the pros. The athleticism is there for all to see, but it might be a case of the prospect being better suited to guard during his rookie year.

If that is a conclusion Carolina also comes to, then the need for a veteran left tackle to protect Sam Darnold’s blindside is of critical importance. A couple of quality options remain on the market, although they aren’t expected to be there for long now that the draft has come to a conclusion and the date for compensatory picks has been and gone.

That’s why it’s vital for the Panthers to come to a quick decision on this. The coaching staff cannot go into the season with Greg Little and Trenton Scott as potential starting options, with both failing to produce the goods when given the opportunity last season.

Carolina might just decide to throw Christensen in at the deep end and see how he performs. But a better contingency plan is needed if the rookie goes through some early complications.