5 free agents the Panthers could poach from NFC South rivals in 2022
By Dean Jones
Which upcoming free agents could the Carolina Panthers potentially poach from their NFC South divisional rivals in 2022?
Free agency is always an exciting time of year for fans. A chance to speculate on potential incoming while wondering just which current roster members will stay or be moved on during a critical period of the offseason.
The Carolina Panthers have their work cut out in the coming weeks. Matt Rhule is under some significant pressure and will need to hit on almost every decision to avoid the dreaded hot seat from turning into a firing once the 2022 campaign rolls around.
With speculation regarding Sean Payton’s status and Tom Brady’s retirement, there could be a slight window of opportunity for the Panthers, although they’ve got more than their fair share of problems themselves.
While we are looking at the NFC South, here are five free agents that the Panthers could potentially steal from their divisional rivals this spring.
NFC South free agents the Carolina Panthers could poach in 2022
Free Agent No. 1
Hayden Hurst – TE
- 2021 team – Atlanta Falcons
There is nothing wrong with Hayden Hurst from a talent standpoint. But the Atlanta Falcons selecting Kyle Pitts at No. 4 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft changed the way he was utilized by the organization.
A former first-round pick himself, Hurst has been relegated to an afterthought on offense in favor of Pitts, who certainly lived up to the hype coming out of Florida with an outstanding rookie campaign. This could lead the tight end to explore pastures new this offseason and the Carolina Panthers could certainly do with extra assistance from this particular positional group.
The Panthers have high hopes for Tommy Tremble. But Hurst could be a shrewd acquisition while the Notre Dame product continues to refine his pass-catching skills.