5 defensive ends the Carolina Panthers should target in 2022 free agency
By Luke Gray
Which defensive ends could the Carolina Panthers take a look at to boost their options during an important 2022 free agency period?
The defensive position was a positive one for the Carolina Panthers in 2021. Starting pair Haason Reddick and Brian Burns combined for a total of 20 sacks forming a solid pair off the edge, however, with the Temple product now a free agent after signing only a one-year deal and also potentially the loss of rotational player Marquis Haynes, it could be a positional group that needs further additions this offseason.
Despite this position being an overall positive, it was not without its issues. With the Panthers starting edge rush pairing in Burns and Reddick both being under 250 pounds, they struggled at points against the run to seal the edge.
Reddick has already signaled his intent to bulk up in the offseason and look to head to training camp in 2022 at around the 260-pound mark. Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer also suggested Carolina needed to find a bigger presence on the edge to stop their woes in this statistical category.
With a limited cap space and more pressing needs elsewhere, the Panthers may not be prepared to spend a significant amount on this position. This could mean a more serious role for players such as Yetur Gross-Matos and Carolina could target more rotational pieces in free agency.
They may even look to the upcoming draft to give new defensive line coach Paul Pasqualoni options to work with heading into training camp.
Without further ado, here are five defensive ends the Panthers could target in 2022 free agency.