5 strong replacements if the Panthers cut ties with Damien Wilson
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Dont’a Hightower
Acquiring another veteran from the free-agent market could be a short-term option if the Carolina Panthers are concerned enough about Damien Wilson’s arrest to release the player. This would be the smart way to go considering what’s at stake for the team and head coach Matt Rhule next time around.
Fortunately for the Panthers, there are still some highly experienced names looking for employment that could be interested. Dont’a Hightower jumps out as someone that could make his presence felt on the field and provide veteran leadership within Carolina’s locker room at a time when it’ll be needed most.
The former first-round pick out of Alabama has spent his entire nine-year career with the New England Patriots. Hightower is a two-time Pro Bowler and has three Super Bowl rings to his name – production and results that would command instant respect in Carolina.
Whether this is something that Hightower would consider at this stage of his playing days is uncertain. It would be a chance to come in and start right away, which would help, but he might be willing to wait around for a better opportunity on a contender following the 2022 NFL Draft.
As options go, this might be the best one available. Something the Panthers should think long and hard about if Wilson is let go.