5 players from 2018 Cardinals who could re-join Steve Wilks on the Panthers

Patrick Peterson – CB

While this doesn’t represent a positional group of need, the benefits of Patrick Peterson landing on the Carolina Panthers could be substantial if both Stephon Gilmore and Donte Jackson don’t come back in free agency. The All-Pro might not be the force of old, but his veteran leadership might be useful within a young core that would be losing two key pieces if the aforementioned veterans take their chances elsewhere.

Peterson worked with Steve Wilks in 2018 and would be under his direct guidance if this move – however unlikely – came to fruition. Much will obviously depend on the money he’s after and the statuses of Jackson and Gilmore – but it could make a lot of sense in the short-term.

After a glittering career with the Arizona Cardinals, Peterson departed the franchise in free agency last year to join the Minnesota Vikings. Even though Mike Zimmer’s men failed to make the postseason once again, the cornerback gave up just 56.6 percent of targets thrown his way and demonstrated he could still have one or two more good years left at the very top.

Another potential avenue the Panthers could go with Peterson is transitioning the eight-time Pro Bowler to safety alongside Jeremy Chinn. This is something that’s well within his capabilities thanks to a high football IQ and might even prolong his career along the way.

Money is tight in Carolina, which could restrict such a move from becoming a reality. But with a new head coach and general manager coming in with the Vikings, Peterson might be on the lookout for a new home as a result.