5 strangest moves of the Carolina Panthers 2021 offseason so far
By Dean Jones
What could be the strangest moves made by the Carolina Panthers during an eventful offseason period in 2021 so far?
It’s been anything but dull where the Carolina Panthers are concerned this offseason. The introduction of Scott Fitterer as their new general manager has brought some substantial changes to the roster, which will hopefully come with some improved production on the field and long-term sustainability both during the 2021 season and even beyond that.
Nothing is guaranteed. And the Panthers are taking some big risks with some of their decisions in pursuit of progression.
The obvious one centers on quarterback Sam Darnold, who is the definition of a feast or famine acquisition that could swing Carolina’s chances one way or another. If he can make a better go of things with more weapons and quality coaching, then a potential postseason spot might not be too far behind.
There were some questionable decisions made by the organization during a busy spring. Here are the five strangest from the offseason so far.
Move No. 1
Carolina Panthers released Tre Boston
From a production standpoint, it made sense for the Panthers to cut ties with Tre Boston. His performances just weren’t up to the standard we saw from the safety during the 2019 campaign, with those in power opting to go with Juston Burris instead.
Carolina didn’t do much to address safety depth this offseason in free agency or the 2021 NFL Draft. Keeping Boston around as a backup could have given them an experienced presence on the backend who was able to slot in at a moment’s notice given how familiar he already is with the scheme.
Boston was also a much-loved and motivational figure within the locker room, so his influence will be sorely missed from that standpoint, too.
The former North Carolina standout is yet to find a new home for next season. Whether the Panthers will bring him back on a reduced deal or not is up for debate.