Carolina Panthers weekly awards: Week 1 vs. NY Jets
By Dean Jones
Haason Reddick – Carolina Panthers OLB
It was a debut to remember for Haason Reddick, who already looks to be a shrewd acquisition by the Carolina Panthers earlier this year from the Arizona Cardinals in free agency.
The outside linebacker was a relentless force getting after quarterback Zach Wilson in Week 1, with his contribution across the second level another element to his overall influence that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Reddick’s decision to reunite with his former college coaches Matt Rhule and Phil Snow could be a masterstroke. The Temple product is on the lookout for a big-money deal next spring and if he keeps this up, it’s going to come with some substantial financial rewards.
There was nothing the New York Jets could do to prevent both Reddick and Brian Burns from causing havoc off the edge. The duo came up with a side bet on who gets the most sacks in 2021, which is clearly inspiring both to bigger and better things.
With 1.5 sacks, four tackles, and two quarterback hits, Reddick can be proud of his production. Make no mistake, his importance will only grow as the season progresses.
Carolina’s defense was almost flawless in Week 1 – especially in the first half – and Reddick was a big part of that right out of the gate.
A job well done from the 2017 first-round pick. Long may it continue.