5 Panthers who must get more playing time in Week 7 at the Giants
By Dean Jones
Frankie Luvu – Carolina Panthers OLB
There’s little doubt that Frankie Luvu is fast becoming one of the free-agent bargains of 2021. The linebacker has completely come to life with the Carolina Panthers after a difficult spell on the New York Jets, something that’s benefitting the player ahead of contract negotiations next spring and the team overall throughout the campaign so far.
The Panthers have to find more ways to get Luvu involved. He seemed to be around the football consistently against the Minnesota Vikings and even produced the goods on special teams with a blocked punt that shifted momentum in Carolina’s favor.
Although the Panthers were unable to complete their comeback, that does not detract from how impressive Luvu was from start to finish.
Shaq Thompson’s status is unclear for Sunday’s game. So Luvu might get a more substantial role if the former first-round pick misses a third-straight contest.
Carolina’s coaching staff knows they can now rely on the Washington State product, who has a rare ability to make plays and inspire those around him with unrivaled enthusiasm.
Luvu is a joy to watch on the field and a breath of fresh air. It’s time the Panthers put his skill set to better and more prolonged use.