5 Panthers players who could be massively underrated in 2022
By Dean Jones
Damien Wilson – Carolina Panthers LB
Jermaine Carter failed to make the most out of his big opportunity as the starting middle linebacker in 2021. The Carolina Panthers clearly felt there were better options available and moved on from the Maryland product in free agency, which also highlighted their poor decision to trade away Pro Bowler Denzel Perryman to the Las Vegas Raiders early in training camp.
That is in the past, obviously, What’s important now is the next man up solidifies the position that’s been a growing concern ever since Luke Kuechly decided to retire after eight seasons due to health concerns.
Carolina signed Damien Wilson early in the free-agent period. He is a Super Bowl winner with the Kansas City Chiefs that turned out for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season, achieving 106 tackles and indicating there might be even more to come with better players around him.
One area where Wilson excels is against the run. He anticipates play development extremely well and has the short-area burst to make his presence felt early and often.
Wilson is not the best in coverage, far from it actually. But this is something the Panthers already know based on the acquisition of Cory Littleton, who plays the same position and thrives in this particular area.
This could indicate a tandem approach. Although Wilson has more upside and could be a big hit in Carolina if everything clicks into place.