5 potential free-agent replacements for DaQuan Jones in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Quinton Jefferson
- 2021 team – Las Vegas Raiders
Working out an extension with DaQuan Jones would provide the Carolina Panthers with some continuity ahead of a crucial Year 3 for head coach Matt Rhule. But there are a wealth of other options available if those in power cannot reach an agreement with the player.
One such example who could assist significantly is Quinton Jefferson. The ferocious interior pass-rusher caused havoc for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 and the former fifth-round pick is another with connections to Scott Fitterer, who was one of the primary decision-makers with the Seattle Seahawks when he was drafted.
Jefferson specializes in getting into opponents’ backfields early and often during games. He is coming off a campaign where he achieved career highs in sacks, tackles, and quarterback hits, so the Panthers could benefit enormously from his presence providing the money is right for all parties.
If Jefferson can make some slight adjustments to his gap discipline on running downs, then this could be a shrewd bit of business for Carolina, who needs to put the right pieces in place after Phil Snow’s defense made some encouraging strides last time around.
The Raiders have just $21.53 million in cap space available and have a brand new coaching staff led by Josh McDaniels. This could mean some big changes to personnel and it remains to be seen whether or not Jefferson will be part of these plans.