3 reasons the Panthers and Malik Hooker could be a perfect match
By Dean Jones
Malik Hooker’s ballhawk mentality
It wouldn’t just be the Carolina Panthers doing Malik Hooker a favor by giving him the chance to reignite his career in this eventuality. The player possesses a wealth of exciting attributes that could make a massive difference providing there are no further complications on the health front.
Hooker managed just two games for the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. But it’s easy to forget what a valuable contributor he was during his first three seasons with the organization.
His high football IQ and aggressive attitude enabled Hooker to make his presence felt from the word go. The player took the responsibility of being the No. 15 overall selection incredibly seriously and there appears little doubt things would have ended differently on the Colts had injury not taken a substantial toll.
Adding someone like Hooker at a good price is something the Panthers should consider if they haven’t already. His ability to make plays on the backend is renowned and when one considers Carolina has Jaycee Horn and A.J. Bouye also coming into the fold, he might just be the missing link.
If the Panthers decide to roll with the options they have currently, it might be a problem unless inexperienced players such as Myles Hartsfield and Sam Franklin make serious strides.
Hooker will change all that in an instant and has the skills to be of significant use.