5 Panthers offseason departures who’ll thrive elsewhere in 2021

Kawann Short – Former Carolina Panthers DT

Although Kawann Short has yet to sign with another team following his release earlier this year, that might all change in the not-too-distant future now the defensive tackle has been cleared to resume football-related activities.

The Carolina Panthers got some outstanding production from Short after selecting him in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He was a commanding force on the interior that could impact a game in many ways, but considering his injury problems over the last two years a parting was predictable.

According to ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter, Short has received interest from a “handful” of teams looking to bring him on board for the upcoming campaign. Carolina was also keen to leave the door open regarding a potential return should the opportunity arise.

Short still has a lot to offer. And his body should now be fully healed after featuring just five times over the last couple of seasons.

Perhaps his days as an undisputed starter might be difficult to attain moving forward. But if Short can accept a primary rotational role somewhere and make a difference with fewer reps, that’s an impressive tool for any defense to call upon.

Nobody would complain too much if Short came back to Carolina. However, the Pro Bowler might be looking to land on a team that has better prospects of lifting the Vince Lombardi Trophy as his window of opportunity to secure a ring closes with each passing year.