5 intriguing free agents Panthers could snag on the cheap in 2022
By Dean Jones
Sheldon Richardson – DT
- 2021 team – Minnesota Vikings
DaQuan Jones did well after joining the Carolina Panthers in 2021, but the veteran defensive tackle is out of contract and it remains to be seen whether the organization can work out a new deal with the player.
If Jones does depart, then it leaves a hole alongside Derrick Brown. One that Bravvion Roy or Daviyon Nixon might not be ready to fill just yet.
Should this scenario play out, then getting another experienced presence to assist in a similar fashion Jones managed to attain last season would be worthwhile. Sheldon Richardson is out of contract and with a new head coach arriving at the Minnesota Vikings sooner rather than later, he might be on the outside looking in when it’s time to decide his fate.
This would be a tremendous fit for the Panthers if the price is right.
Richardson is a disruptive influence on the interior and can come off the edge if needed. His ability against the run is also something Carolina could do with after struggling in this category over the second half of the campaign.
light. Must Read. 4 players the Carolina Panthers could have picked instead of Jaycee Horn
Much will depend on the level of interest shown in Richardson if he hits the market. He made just $3 million in 2021 on the Vikings, so something similar might represent a bargain for the Panthers and one they should consider if Jones’ demands cannot be met.