4 burning questions facing the Carolina Panthers LBs in 2021
By Dean Jones
Can Haason Reddick match his 2020 form?
It was almost a given that Haason Reddick was going to link up once again with his former college coach Matt Rhule this offseason. The pair formed a close bond during their time together at Temple and landing on the Carolina Panthers in free agency seemed like a win-win for all parties.
Considering the financial climate across the league, Reddick decided to bet on himself rather than take a long-term deal with less money than he’d probably make in 2022. A one-year arrangement also provides the Panthers with more of an indication as to whether his 2020 production was a flash in the pan or the start of something better.
Reddick enjoyed a career year with the Arizona Cardinals last season at just the right time. His 12.5 sacks far exceeded anything he’d put together so far, with the potential for even more to come not out of the question back within a scheme he knows and has thrived in before.
The 2017 first-round pick has made a notable impression this offseason. Carolina is using him as a starting outside linebacker more often than not, although there is also the possibility of Reddick putting his hand in the dirt as a defensive end should the right situation come along.
If Reddick can match or get close to his numbers from the previous campaign, it’ll put him in an incredibly strong position when his representatives head to the bargaining table next spring. Whether the Panthers will pay up or let him walk is another matter entirely.