4 recent Panthers departures who could make a playoff run in 2021
By Dean Jones
Zach Kerr – Former Carolina Panthers DT
- 2021 team – San Francisco 49ers
Releasing Zach Kerr was one of the more surprising moves made by the Carolina Panthers this offseason. The defensive tackle showed plenty to suggest he could make his presence felt in 2021 and considering the minimal salary-cap savings involved, it did raise more than a few eyebrows within the team’s fanbase.
Although the likes of DaQuan Jones, Daviyon Nixon, and perhaps even seventh-rounder Phil Hoskins could step up in the absence of Kerr and Kawann Short, it remains to be seen whether any or all can reach expectations.
Kerr wasn’t on the free-agent scrapheap for long, eventually signing a one-year, $1.21 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers that came with a $50,000 signing bonus and $250,000 guaranteed.
It wasn’t that long ago the Niners were competing in the Super Bowl. Even though there are some questions surrounding their quarterback position between Jimmy Garappolo and No. 3 overall selection Trey Lance, there is more than enough in the way of talent across their roster to make some real noise in what appears to be a tough division.
If this situation is resolved quickly and San Francisco hits the ground running, then it is surely going to come with a playoff return and Kerr should have a role to play providing his transition is a smooth one.