5 free agents the Carolina Panthers should aggressively pursue in 2022
By Dean Jones
Which free agents should the Carolina Panthers aggressively pursue during what’s going to be a critical offseason period for the franchise in 2022?
Things could not have gone much worse for the Carolina Panthers this season. A campaign that started brightly before the foundations crumbled – resulting in no playoff football and a losing record for the fourth-straight year since David Tepper purchased the organization from Jerry Richardson.
All signs point to head coach Matt Rhule getting a third year to try and turn things around, much to the dismay of many fans who’ve already seen enough. If the former Baylor man does come back, he simply has to get every personnel decision right this offseason to secure his status.
The Panthers have around $28.3 million in salary-cap space remaining before some sacrifices are made. Plenty of established players need new deals and there is the obvious problem awaiting Carolina at the quarterback position this spring.
Without further ado, here are five free agents that the Panthers should aggressively pursue if available in 2022.
Free agents the Carolina Panthers should aggressively pursue in 2022.
Free-Agent No. 1
Brandon Scherff – OG
- 2021 team: Washington Football Team
- 2021 cap hit: $18.03 million
The Carolina Panthers need a complete makeover on their offensive line. A rag-tag group of veterans and mid-round draft picks have been a complete letdown outside of stud right tackle Taylor Moton, who seems to be the only confirmed starter across the unit in 2022 from the outside looking in.
Until the Panthers solve protection issues, it makes no difference who is under center. It wouldn’t be the cheapest option in the world, but someone like Brandon Scherff would instantly turn around Carolina’s fortunes on the interior.
Simply put, Scherff is one of the best in the business. He is currently playing on the franchise tag and if terms cannot be agreed with the Washington Football Team then there will be a substantial amount of interest.