4 free agents under 25 years old the Panthers should target in 2022

Carolina Panthers should target Deonte Harris (RFA)

Finding some reliability in the kick return game is an often overlooked position, but one that can make all the difference with the right coaching and athletic attributes. Alex Erickson manned this position for the Carolina Panthers more often than not in 2021 and although his hands were assured, there was little in the way of risks taken and perhaps it might be time to go in a different direction.

New special teams coordinator Chris Tabor has a habit of turning kick returners into Pro Bowlers. Deonte Harris already has Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections to his name following a sensational rookie campaign with the New Orleans Saints in 2018 and he could be someone that warrants a look with a restricted free-agent status attached.

Harris is averaging 10.1 yards per punt return and 25.7 yards for every kickoff brought back into the open field. His 5-foot-6 frame makes him incredibly difficult to bring down and if the cash-strapped Saints decide not to extend the player, then the Panthers should take a keen interest if the price is right.

One potential stumbling block could be Harris’ contract demands. Spotrac projects the multi-purpose weapon to make an annual salary of $9.6 million on a three-year, $29.4 million deal, which is way too rich for Carolina given their needs elsewhere.

If the Panthers decide that Harris could also be used prominently as part of Ben McAdoo’s offense, then it becomes a different story. Something that is entirely possible given his 570 receiving yards and three touchdowns from 36 receptions last season.