5 early free agents on defense for the Panthers to target in 2022
By Dean Jones
Jonathan Allen – DT
- 2021 team – Washington Football Team
Finding a long-term partner for stud defensive tackle Derrick Brown is something the Carolina Panthers are trying hard to do. They brought in plenty of viable options that could work out this offseason, with the likes of DaQuan Jones, Daviyon Nixon, and three-technique Morgan Fox all set to play a big role in 2021.
However, if someone like Jonathan Allen hits the free-agent market, it might force them into a change of direction.
The former No. 17 overall selection out of BYU is heading into the final year of his deal with the Washington Football Team. Another strong campaign from the versatile lineman would put him in an incredibly strong position when he heads to the bargaining table next spring.
Allen is only just entering his prime, so it would be a shock if Washington didn’t put the franchise tag on him, at the very least. They have another year before the team starts thinking about paying edge rusher Montez Sweat, with Chase Young only entering his second year after being taken No. 2 overall in 2020.
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This puts them in a strong position to keep Allen around, which they’d be wise to do given his exceptional production of late. However, if he was given permission to test the free-agent market there will be plenty of interest and the Panthers might just be at the front of the queue.