5 Super Bowl free agents the Carolina Panthers should watch closely

Carolina Panthers should watch Brian Allen – C

Matt Paradis is injured and out of contract, although he’ll still be paid north of $8 million by the Carolina Panthers in 2022 following a contract restructure. Pat Elflein did perform better at the center spot than what we saw from the veteran as a guard, but a more stable presence might be something the team looks to acquire in free agency or the NFL Draft.

Improving all areas of the protection outside of right tackle Taylor Moton has gone from a need to a necessity for the Panthers after the unit collapsed miserably throughout the season. There isn’t anyone else that could feel confident about being the starter next time around, so a complete overhaul could be in the offing if those in power had any sense.

Perhaps targeting someone with the credentials of Brian Allen would be worth its weight in gold. The Michigan State product has been an absolute revelation for the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, developing a strong bond with quarterback Matthew Stafford and providing consistent protection and exemplary communication at the line of scrimmage in equal measure.

Allen has made himself a ton of money this season, giving up five sacks and conceding five penalties from 902 snaps to secure an outstanding 80.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.

The Panthers have to make the right investments on their offensive line if they want to stand any chance of making strides in 2022. Calling Allen would be a good place to start if the Rams can’t keep him around.