5 former Carolina Panthers players who could return in 2022
By Dean Jones
Andrew Norwell – Former Carolina Panthers OG
After four seasons away from the Carolina Panthers, stud offensive lineman Andrew Norwell could hit the free-agent market this offseason following a fine spell with the Jacksonville Jaguars. This should not go unnoticed by those in power within the organization, who need to solve their protection problems or risk whoever they pick under center going through even more turmoil next time around.
Norwell spent his first four seasons in Carolina after going undrafted out of Ohio State. He made an All-Pro in 2017 at just the right time, which earned the guard a bumper deal in free agency that the Panthers could not afford to match.
With a new regime coming into Jacksonville, Norwell’s time with the franchise might be coming to an end. Although the prospect of him getting an extension cannot be ruled out as the Jaguars have to protect quarterback Trevor Lawrence at all costs next time around.
At 30 years old, Norwell has a few good years left and the Panthers are absolutely desperate for additional help on the interior. Even though this is a different staff to the one he played under in Carolina, a familiarity with the fanbase and what’s required could sway his decision if there is a mutual interest.
Good linemen are at a premium in free agency. If Norwell was to hit the market, then the Panthers might face some strong competition for his services.