5 veteran free agents to boost the Carolina Panthers pass-rush in 2022

Carolina Panthers could target Benson Mayowa

If the Carolina Panthers wanted to go down the cheaper route with a versatile player that comes with proven experience, then Benson Mayowa is someone that might be worth an opportunity. The former Idaho standout has carved out a successful career for himself on the defensive rotation despite going undrafted, turning out for four separate teams and leaving his mark along the way.

Mayowa wouldn’t be classed as a game-changing edge rusher by any stretch of the imagination. However, he does all the little things well and could be someone the Panthers utilize further down the depth chart.

The player currently stands at 27 sacks, 185 tackles, 44 tackles for loss, and 52 quarterback hits from 115 career games – 31 of which he has started. Mayowa played 46 percent of defensive snaps for the Seattle Seahawks in 2021 and also proved to be a useful special teams contributor when called upon to further heighten his overall influence.

Adding someone like Mayowa would allow Carolina to move forward with Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos as their starting defensive end tandem safe in the knowledge that they have a capable veteran waiting in the wings if needed.

This situation might be one that is enticing to Mayowa, too. A legitimate chance of earning prominent reps on a defense that does appear loaded with exciting young talent.