4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers after their 2021 bye week
Two Carolina Panthers players finish with 12+ sacks
With five games remaining, Hasson Reddick has accumulated 10.5 sacks while Brian Burns has collected eight. The Carolina Panthers defense is hungry and playing for pride at this point, especially after two dismal performances against the Washington Football Team and Miami Dolphins.
Throughout the year, the defense has been the shining star in most games. However, knowing another starting cornerback is out for the season after Donte Jackson was put on the shelf, pass-rushing will be even more of a premium and these two are chomping at the bit.
Burns is in the third year of his rookie deal and making a strong case for the team to not only pick up his fifth-year option in the offseason but give him a long-term deal in the process.
Reddick signed a one-year, $6 million deal this past offseason which he has far outplayed. One can make a strong argument he was general manager Scott Fritterer’s best offseason acquisition – although Matt Rhule’s previous relationship with the outside linebacker also had a lot to do with his arrival.
The former Temple star is beloved by the fanbase. And, at only 27 years old, has many great years in his future. He deserves a long-term deal this offseason and the Panthers should do everything in their power to keep the player around.