4 former Panthers players who needed a change of scenery in 2022

Jermaine Carter – Former Carolina Panthers LB

There was an incredible opportunity awaiting Jermaine Carter last season. The Carolina Panthers rewarded him with the starting role as the team’s middle linebacker, which was a big confidence boost for a player who did flash promise down the stretch in 2020 despite not getting off to the best of starts with head coach Matt Rhule.

Everyone within the organization appeared convinced that Carter would thrive with increased responsibilities. Perhaps even becoming the elusive long-term successor to Luke Kuechly along the way.

Things did not go as planned. Carter was inconsistent more often than not, struggling with gap discipline and failing to make his presence felt in pass-rushing stations.

Couple this with some clear failings in coverage, and it’s not hard to see why Carter was moved on this offseason. The Maryland product simply didn’t do enough and although his huge personality will be missed, a fresh start was probably needed for all parties.

Carter was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs, where he will compete for a prominent depth chart position and even a starting berth if everything goes well. As situations go, this is a pretty good one, but what comes next will ultimately come down to the player.