5 Carolina Panthers legends that still need replacing in 2022
By Dean Jones
Ryan Kalil – Former Carolina Panthers C
One obvious former Carolina Panthers player that remains sorely missed is Ryan Kalil. The prolific center enjoyed a glittering spell with the organization that spanned 12 years, consisted of 148 games, and saw the offensive lineman secure two All-Pro selections as well as five trips to the Pro Bowl.
Kalil retired following the 2018 season before coming back the following year as part of the New York Jets. A decision he’d probably like to have back, in all honesty.
With that being said, the Panthers haven’t managed to find the right successor for Kalil as yet. Hopes were high that Matt Paradis could be the guy after Carolina shelled out almost $30 million to acquire the Boise State product in free agency, but inconsistency coupled with injury problems means both parties should go their separate ways this offseason.
Pat Elflein did show signs of life when installed at the position he starred in college at Ohio State. But relying on the former third-round pick in 2022 is not without serious risk.
There are multiple options that could potentially be available in free agency that will no doubt interest the Panthers if the price is right. If they choose to go down the college route, then projected first-round pick Tyler Linderbaum is a prospect with All-Pro potential that could cement ths position for the next decade with a smooth transition.
What the Panthers wouldn’t give for a player like Kalil right now. A dominant protector and supreme locker room leader.