5 Panthers players facing a make-or-break offseason in 2021

Frankie Luvu – Carolina Panthers LB

There appears little doubt that Frankie Luvu won’t be found wanting for effort or enthusiasm during offseason workouts. But whether he has the talent to force his way into a prominent spot on the rotation is another matter entirely.

Luvu signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers in free agency that comes with a cap hit of $1.1 million. He started three games for the New York Jets in 2020 and was on the field for 23 percent of the team’s defensive snaps, gaining 25 tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss, and one forced fumble during this span.

Much will obviously depend on how Luvu gets on during OTAs and training camp. But there might be an opportunity awaiting the player if he makes a solid impression in the weeks and months ahead.

Carolina isn’t blessed with great depth in its linebacker room despite the addition of Denzel Perryman. Luvu could be used anywhere across the second level if needed and it’s easy to forget that the former Washington State star is just 24 years old with his best play ahead of him.

It could go either way for Luvu. A strong offseason would surely see him make the 53-man roster considering the other options available and nobody will know more about what’s at stake than the player himself.