3 pros and cons to the Carolina Panthers pursuing David DeCastro
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers would be getting an elite performer
David DeCastro was considered to have a down year for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020, even though he didn’t give up a single sack and conceded just two penalties from 845 snaps.
This is one of the NFL’s most consistent performers at the position ever since he entered the NFL out of Stanford in 2021. Providing there is something left in the tank, it appears to be a no-brainer for a needy team such as the Carolina Panthers.
DeCastro’s credentials are there for all to see. He is a two-time All-Pro and has six Pro Bowl selections to his name, with his highest Pro Football Focus grade coming in at a phenomenal 90.0 back in 2017.
Having someone like DeCastro on the roster would give everyone on the Panthers a massive boost. This is a roster that is relatively devoid of any prolific veteran talent and although relying on youth does possess its benefits, there is just no telling what a signing such as this could do for their immediate aspirations.
Going after DeCastro seems to be against the grain of what Carolina is trying to build under Matt Rhule and Scott Fitterer. But the simple fact of the matter is if the protection doesn’t hold out, all their exciting additions this offseason will be for nothing.
It’s worth putting in a call, at the very least. However, there are sure to be plenty of willing suitors for a player with so many quality performances over a substantial period of time under his belt.