4 role players the Carolina Panthers should consider extending
By Dean Jones
Jermaine Carter – Carolina Panthers LB
Considering Jermaine Carter’s future looked incredibly uncertain this time last year after failing to hit it off with head coach Matt Rhule, his outlook is far more promising in 2021.
The linebacker was inserted into the lineup thanks to Tahir Whitehead’s dismal attempt to fill the void left by Luke Kuechly, who announced his shock retirement following the 2019 season. Carter made the most of being out of the doghouse, revitalizing the Carolina Panthers at the second level and improving the production of Shaq Thompson in the process.
What’s important for Carter is maintaining his status as a key part of the team’s plans.
The Panthers brought in Denzel Perryman from the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency – who should start on the inside – which leaves the former Maryland standout reverting to his usual position on the outside.
Even if Carter is rotating in and out of the lineup depending on the situation, he’s expected to be a prominent part of Phil Snow’s plans on defense.
This is a big season upcoming for Carter, which is the last on his rookie deal.
If the player can make some noticeable strides next season it might force the team’s hand and give him the long-term deal the fifth-round pick in 2018 is looking for.