What exactly do the Carolina Panthers have at DE in 2021?
By Dean Jones
The rest
- Marquis Haynes, Morgan Fox, Austin Larkin.
It’s a fluid situation behind the top-three defensive ends on the depth chart. The Carolina Panthers have a lot of versatile weapons on their front seven, so expect to see plenty of maneuvering from coordinator Phil Snow to keep opposing offenses guessing.
Marquis Haynes made a lasting impression during his time on the field in 2020. This came with four sacks and plenty of hope more might be to come from a player who is heading into the final year of his deal.
If Haynes proves his worth yet again next season, then the Panthers would be wise to keep him around.
There is also the possibility of Morgan Fox operating from the edge on occasions. The free-agent signing performed exceptionally well as a three-technique on the interior for the Los Angeles Rams in 2020, which Carolina needs after deciding to let Efe Obada walk in free agency and sign for the Buffalo Bills.
Less is expected of Austin Larkin, who faces a fight to make the 53-man roster after a flurry of activity in free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft. The player was used sparingly last season and it remains to be seen whether he can alter perceptions with a strong training camp.
Overall, this is a formidable unit that should put up some lofty numbers in 2021. Brian Burns and Haason Reddick will lead the charge and if others can follow, then they’ll be fun to watch and highly productive to boot.