6 potential replacements for Panthers LB Jermaine Carter in 2022
By Dean Jones
Anthony Walker Jr.
- 2021 team – Cleveland Browns
To say Anthony Walker Jr. has exceeded expectations since entering the league as a fifth-round pick would be an understatement. The physical linebacker grasped a big opportunity with both hands, quickly emerging as a key cog in the Indianapolis Colts and Cleveland Browns defenses – gaining a tremendous reputation across the NFL.
Walker has gone over 100 tackles in three of his five seasons, providing the consistency and work ethic that are always an essential part of any thriving defense. It was something of a surprise that the Colts didn’t keep him around and it remains to be seen whether Cleveland comes to an agreement with the player or goes in a different direction after signing him to a one-year, $3 million deal last spring.
With 113 tackles during the campaign, Walker will think he’s done enough for an extended stay. But if the Browns don’t reach out then a team like the Carolina Panthers could swoop in pursuit of finding an upgrade on Jermaine Carter.
One area where Walker excels is against the run – something Carter struggled with more often than not in 2021. Although there are some complications when it comes to coverage, the Panthers have a promising young secondary to compensate, especially if either Donte Jackson or Stephon Gilmore returns to the fold.
If Carter does leave, then the Panthers could do far worse than look in Walker’s direction.