5 free agents who’d fill instant needs for the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could target Andrew Norwell – OG
Strengthening the offensive line is arguably the Carolina Panthers’ top priority this offseason. Relying on NFL journeymen and unheralded draft picks proved to be their undoing in 2021, with only right tackle Taylor Moton providing any sort of encouragement as the protection crumbled under substantial pressure throughout.
It’s a problem that needs resolving at the earliest possible opportunity. Looking at the draft would be a smart way to go, but acquiring a prominent veteran or two in free agency could provide the unit with an even bigger boost next season.
Andrew Norwell is set to hit free agency and is no stranger to the Panthers having starred for the organization over the first four years of his career, earning All-Pro honors in 2017 before signing a big-money deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
With a changing of the guard taking place in Jacksonville, Norwell might be on the lookout for a new home. Although if new head coach Doug Pederson had any sense, he would try and keep him around in some capacity.
If Norwell does hit the market, then there is little doubt there would be a queue of suitors looking to acquire the veteran. However, a previous connection to the Panthers could sway his decision providing there was a mutual interest.