Are the Carolina Panthers making a mistake with Haason Reddick?

It appears as if outside linebacker Haason Reddick will test the free-agent market this spring, which could be a major mistake by the Carolina Panthers.

Haason Reddick brought something very special to the Carolina Panthers in 2021. The stud outside linebacker was a revelation opposite Brian Burns on Phil Snow’s front seven, providing an explosive presence in pass-rushing situations and more than holding his own against the run for good measure.

The former first-round pick finished the season with 11 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 18 quarterback hits, 33 pressures, and a 67.9 grade from Pro Football Focus. This puts Reddick in a strong position regarding a bumper payday and judging by the comments made by general manager Scott Fitterer at the NFL Scouting Combine, it doesn’t appear likely that the Panthers are willing to make such a big financial commitment right now.

While the prospect of Reddick coming back wasn’t entirely ruled out, Fitterer stated that the Temple product had earned the right to see how much he could get on the free-agent market after two outstanding seasons of production.

"“Haason has earned the right to go out and see what he can get. He’s got two years in a row with double-digit sacks. He’s going to command a lot of money on the market. I’m happy for him. We just want the dialogue to be open, give us a chance, and we’ll see where it goes.”"

Carolina Panthers are making a big mistake with Haason Reddick

This could be a big mistake by the Panthers. Reddick was one of the team’s top performers last season and letting him walk could have some detrimental ramifications on defense ahead of a critical season for head coach Matt Rhule in 2022.

The Panthers currently have just $15 million available to spend, which isn’t ideal. This means some tough choices are on the horizon for Carolina and Reddick is now expected to get an opportunity to secure a megabucks deal elsewhere on a team that could even possess a better chance of contending.

It does seem strange that Reddick will be given this chance by the Panthers considering his previous association with Rhule and Snow from their time working together in college. And as we all know, the salary cap can be manipulated if Carolina truly wanted to keep him around.

Should Reddick depart, then it leaves a big hole. Frankie Luvu could move into a starting role after signing a new two-year deal, with the prospect of Yetur Gross-Matos also becoming more involved another option to consider.

Those in power could also aim to acquire another veteran in free agency on the cheap or take a college prospect during the 2022 NFL Draft. Although this isn’t necessarily guaranteed to replicate Reddick’s contribution throughout his one and perhaps only campaign with the franchise.

The Panthers don’t have much room for errors when it comes to personnel this offseason. As Fitterer stated on Wednesday, there is an increased sense of urgency to start winning next season and one or two false moves could mean some jobs are on the line as a result.

Letting the team’s most prolific sack master leave in free agency is a monumental call to make. One that could come back to bit the Panthers in a big way when push comes to shove.

As for Reddick, he is going to get paid by somebody. Something he richly deserves after coming of age over the last two seasons.