Could Myles Jack be a problem-solver for the Carolina Panthers?

Could Myles Jack become an instant problem-solver for the Carolina Panthers at the middle linebacker position in 2022 following his recent release?

The Carolina Panthers are sure to be on the lookout for a middle linebacker at some stage during the offseason. Finding a long-term successor for Luke Kuechly following his shock retirement after the 2019 campaign has been tough over the last two years and Jermaine Carter’s inconsistencies could leave the organization with no choice other than to go find yet another alternative next time around.

This need is going somewhat under the radar with all the Deshaun Watson talk. But with many veterans on defense already departed or set to leave the Panthers, they might want to solidify this problem position at the earliest possible opportunity.

One player that might come under consideration is Myles Jack, who was recently released by the Jacksonville Jaguars following their frenzied spending over the legal tampering period. The former second-round pick has been a standout performer throughout his time in the league so far, going over 100 tackles three times during a prolific six-year career to date.

Myles Jack could be exactly what the Carolina Panthers are looking for

At least from the outside looking in, Jack is exactly what the Panthers are looking for. A sideline-to-sideline presence that has a true knack for being around the football consistently, communicating well across the second level to further enhance his overall influence.

Jack might have attained 108 tackles in 2021, but there were some missed assignments in coverage. Considering the savings involved, the Jaguars obviously felt there was no better time than to go in a different direction.

Now that the organization has done all it can to secure Watson, they should be focusing their attention elsewhere until they hear from the quarterback. Putting Jack on a defense that might look a lot different if the trade compensation speculation comes to fruition might be a smart ploy from Carolina as they won’t want to lose any momentum if the Clemson product does waive his no-trade clause.

Jack could do with a change of scenery, so he probably welcomed the chance to test the market ahead of time. Providing there is a mutual interest, this could be a fantastic fit for Carolina and the player from a scheme standpoint and especially if their core guys on defense remain moving forward.

The Panthers had a long-term option on the team when they acquired Denzel Perryman last offseason before trading him to the Las Vegas Raiders, where he went on to attain Pro Bowl honors and leave Carolina regretting their decision to move on so swiftly.

Carolina could do far worse than look in Jack’s direction, who has more proven production than anything they’ve churned out since Kuechly called it a day. However, there could be more than a few teams interested in securing his services, so it remains to be seen whether the Panthers also make their intentions clear.

Jack might not be the fastest linebacker to ever grace the league, but there is a high football IQ within the player. If the ex-UCLA standout can brush up on his assistance in the passing game, he could be a tremendous asset for the Panthers during a critical 2022 season for head coach Matt Rhule.

This does seem like a great opportunity for Carolina. One they might strongly consider if the primary decision-makers aren’t too distracted by another certain situation that should resolve sooner rather than later.