3 Panthers veterans that should be cut before 2022 free agency
By Dean Jones
Which veteran players on the Carolina Panthers should be cut ahead of time before the 2022 free-agent frenzy gets underway this spring?
The time is fast approaching for the Carolina Panthers to make some crucial decisions in pursuit of somehow turning things around this offseason. Things went downhill quickly in 2021 for Matt Rhule’s men, who lost 12 of their final 14 games to leave some serious doubts about the current direction of the franchise.
It appears as if the head coach will get another season despite some unbelievable pressure mounting on his shoulders. Rhule hasn’t come across too well in terms of coaching and personnel decisions this season, which hasn’t gone unnoticed by analysts, fans, and former players throughout the campaign.
With just $28.3 million in salary-cap space remaining and no Day 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft right now, it’ll be a monumental task to keep established veterans on the team while also securing the necessary reinforcements for a postseason tilt next time around.
Rhule knows more than most that there is no more room for rash decisions and gambles that could go one way or another. There is also the chance Carolina restructures some contracts and releases others to free-up funds that might be better spent elsewhere.
The Panthers find themselves in a really precarious position. One more offseason of false moves is going to come with some significant ramifications.
With this in mind, here are three Panthers players that could be released before the busy free agency period commences.