5 Panthers players with emerging importance after free-agent moves
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players could boast emerging importance in 2022 based on the team’s activity during the offseason period so far?
A busy start to the offseason for the Carolina Panthers was anticipated with so much at stake in 2022. Given the difficult circumstances and the cloud of Deshaun Watson hanging over them throughout, the organization did a nice job of picking up some quality additions that didn’t cost the earth, even if two major holes remain at quarterback and just who is going to man the offensive line’s blindside.
Of course, the Panthers have lost some important figures on and off the field. Haason Reddick, DaQuan Jones, and Jermaine Carter all signed elsewhere, with All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore and former NFL MVP Cam Newton also unlikely to return barring some drastic change of heart from all parties.
Even though the roster has more depth than at any stage last season, this will count for nothing if players who turned out for the team in 2021 cannot step up their respective contributions when opportunity surely knocks next time around.
With this in mind, here are five Panthers players whose importance has increased significantly judging by the team’s moves in free agency.
Player No. 1
Marquis Haynes – Carolina Panthers DE/OLB
After the Carolina Panthers decided not to match the bumper offer Haason Reddick got from the Philadelphia Eagles, re-signing Marquis Haynes was a smart bit of business by the front office. The edge defender has maximized production from a rotational role throughout his career so far and there is a high chance the former Ole Miss stud’s snap count increases significantly next season.
Carolina could still select another pass-rusher during the draft at some stage. But Haynes’ new deal is a supreme vote of confidence in the player, who attained seven sacks over the last two seasons.
Haynes has already proven to be a difference-maker as part of the rotation. It remains to be seen how he’ll fare if the Panthers give him a starting spot but hopes remain high that he can rise to the occasion.