Stay or Go? Projecting every Panthers free agent situation in 2022
By Dean Jones
Alex Erickson – Carolina Panthers WR/KR
Alex Erickson took on kick returning duties for the Carolina Panthers in 2021. There was nothing wrong with his hands, which were always assured and reliable, but the player didn’t accumulate many memorable highlights and there are now calls from some fans to go in a different direction.
Erickson was also a bit-part player in the passing game, which also goes against him. Carolina does possess wideouts that are more influential and can assist on special teams if needed, which might free up a roster spot elsewhere.
Stay or Go? GO
If the Panthers opted to acquire someone else for new special teams coordinator Chris Tabor, Erickson will be on the outside looking in. Something that is a real possibility all things considered.
Rashaan Melvin – Carolina Panthers CB
Although Rashaan Melvin brought a veteran presence to the Carolina Panthers, he wasn’t trusted all that much when it came to the crunch. The defensive back turned out in 40 percent of the team’s defensive snaps and was solid if not spectacular when on the field.
Carolina has a lot of talented young cornerbacks that should provide a solid foundation moving forward. Something that puts Melvin’s status in serious doubt ahead of the all-important decision date.
Stay or Go? GO
This might depend on how the Panthers approach other free agents or potential trades. But one suspects the organization will move on from Melvin at some stage.