3 pros and cons to the Carolina Panthers pursuing David DeCastro
By Dean Jones
What are the pros and cons behind the Carolina Panthers potentially pursuing recently released guard David DeCastro?
The Carolina Panthers have plenty of questions surrounding their offensive line heading into the 2021 season. Outside of Taylor Moton and Matt Paradis, there are no guaranteed starters and this has the potential to become a significant problem when competitive action begins in Week 1 against the New York Jets.
This is a patchwork group that is either relying on unproven players or veterans who haven’t exactly shone during their time in the league so far. Moton is their one shining light, but he is playing next season on the franchise tag unless a new deal can be reached before the deadline.
The Panthers have shown a willingness to strengthen if the right individual becomes available.
Someone recently released ticks all the boxes.
David DeCastro‘s hugely successful time with the Pittsburgh Steelers came to an end on Thursday when he was released, saving the franchise $8.75 million in salary-cap space. This would be a significant upgrade on anything Carolina has at its disposal currently and even though they do have some young talent on the roster, quarterback Sam Darnold needs help right now.
According to Over the Cap, Carolina has $14.24 million in spare salary-cap space remaining. More than enough to get a short-term deal done with DeCastro providing there is a mutual interest.
With this in mind, here are some pros and cons to the Panthers calling DeCastro and bringing him on board in 2021.