5 former Carolina Panthers players who’ll be missed most in 2022
By Dean Jones
DaQuan Jones – Former Carolina Panthers DT
It didn’t take long for the offers to come DaQuan Jones’ way in free agency when the Carolina Panthers opted not to put an extension out there initially. The imposing defensive tackle was in high demand and eventually signed for the Buffalo Bills, which places him with a legitimate Super Bowl contender next season despite the ever-increasing competitiveness across the AFC.
Jones was brought in by the Panthers in 2021 on a one-year deal and wasted little time in making his presence felt. The veteran formed a strong partnership with Derrick Brown on the defensive line interior and his leadership within the locker room was also something that benefitted a young roster considerably.
The Panthers clearly felt they could move forward without Jones. They signed Matt Ioannidis in free agency and also have high hopes that the likes of Bravvion Roy, Daviyon Nixon, and Phil Hoskins can make the necessary adjustments with potentially more involvement.
There is also growing pressure on Brown to finally put together a complete campaign befitting his physical attributes. The former No. 7 overall selection out of Auburn looks like a stud in the making sometimes, but finding the right consistency is the next stage of his development to enter Pro Bowl-caliber quality.
As for Jones, he will be missed by the Panthers. Their loss is most definitely Buffalo’s gain as they look to get over the hump and into the Super Bowl.