5 free agents the Carolina Panthers should call after first loss of 2021
By Dean Jones
Olivier Vernon – OLB
The Carolina Panthers are nervously awaiting some news regarding Shaq Thompson, who is reportedly set for a spell on the sidelines according to Joseph Person of The Athletic. This would be a substantial blow considering how well the outside linebacker has performed this season and especially when one examines the lack of depth currently at the second level.
Carolina called up Kamal Martin from the active roster at the expense of offensive lineman Michael Jordan, who was waived. If the news on Thompson isn’t the greatest, then someone like Olivier Vernon might be worth signing on a short-term deal.
Vernon is still looking for a new home after tearing his Achilles during the Cleveland Browns final game of the 2020 season. He is reportedly fit and ready to go, even if it hasn’t come with a concrete offer from anyone just yet.
The former third-round pick out of Miami gained nine sacks last season and has one Pro Bowl selection to his name. Vernon can also more than hold his own against the run, which the Panthers need should Thompson miss multiple weeks.
This would be a shrewd pickup by the Panthers. Vernon’s power and explosiveness should fit into Phil Snow’s scheme well and bringing him to the organization would ensure no momentum is lost in the wake of Thompson’s injury.