5 best moves of Carolina Panthers 2022 free agency so far

Carolina Panthers solved their special teams’ riddle

An often-overlooked process compared to others, the Carolina Panthers needed to solve their special teams’ situation to give the coaching staff stability. New coordinator Chris Tabor’s presence should help significantly, but that will count for nothing if the right personnel is not in place.

Again, the Panthers deserve credit for recognizing this and acting accordingly. Zane Gonzalez was handed a deserved extension after completely transforming the team’s kicking fortunes, making 90.9 percent of his attempts throughout the campaign and proving he can hopefully become the team’s long-term option.

Carolina also gave their punting a substantial upgrade with the signing of Johnny Hekker, a Super Bowl winner with the Los Angeles Rams who has four All-Pro selections to his name and also made the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 2010s.

Hekker has a 46.7 yards-per-punt average throughout his career and is another quality addition to the Panthers. If the front office can get themselves a productive kick returner, they will be right in business.

It’s easy to get carried away at this time of year. There are some huge upcoming decisions for Carolina, but if they can get them right, then all hope might not be lost.