Can Haason Reddick propel the Panthers to big things in 2021?

Could Haason Reddick make a substantial difference for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 on his way to a big-money contract next spring?

Getting a difference-maker who could generate consistent pressure opposite Brian Burns next season was essential for the Carolina Panthers this offseason. This was an area where the team struggled in 2020 and although things improved gradually over the second half of the campaign, they can ill-afford the same slow start with so many winnable early games on the schedule.

Thankfully, this was something that the Panthers also recognized. They spent a large chunk of their available finances in free agency on the defensive side of the ball, with the arrival of Haason Reddick from the Arizona Cardinals arguably the best pickup of the bunch.

Reddick signed a one-year, $8 million deal to reunite with his former college coach Matt Rhule. The pair built a strong relationship from their time together at Temple before he was taken in the first round at No. 13 overall, so there are plenty of reasons to be encouraged he can make a significant impression right from the otuset.

His familiarity with Phil Snow’s scheme and the versatility Reddick provides coming off the edge will be a tremendous asset for Carolina to call upon throughout the campaign. The Panthers could use him as a stand-up presence at outside linebacker on occasions, although one suspects he could see most of his snaps as a defensive end.

Carolina Panthers could have the offseason’s biggest bargain in Haason Reddick.

Either way, there is a lot to like about the skills Reddick brings to the table.

He is coming off a breakout season with the Cardinals that ended with 12.5 sacks, 50 pressures, six forced fumbles, 15 tackles for loss, and 16 quarterbacks, earning a 72.8 grade from Pro Football Focus as a result of his efforts.

If Reddick can take this positive momentum and produce similar or even better numbers on the Panthers, this will put him in a strong position when he heads to the bargaining table in 2022.

It was a fantastic deal for the Panthers and one that could be a snip considering how much Reddick is being paid. This is a statement echoed by former NFL player and scout turned analyst Bucky Brooks, who named the pass-rusher as one of five one-year rentals who could excel on their new teams next season and possibly beyond.

"“Playing for a couple of coaches who understand his game and how to maximize his talents, Reddick could rate as the bargain of the free-agent class when we review this signing at the end of the season.”"

Having Burns on the opposite side of the field and Derrick Brown on the interior should also help Reddick thrive. Both players are incredibly productive if given enough space and if opposing protection teams focus their attention on this duo, it will give the new signing plenty of space in which to work.

Much like the situation with quarterback Sam Darnold, everything is in place for Reddick to succeed.

There is a slight danger that last season was a flash in the pan considering what the player’s produced during his career. But nobody will know more how to get the best out of him than Rhule.

This is a low-risk, high reward pickup by the Panthers and one that could be mutually beneficial when it’s all said and done.