4 burning questions remaining during Carolina Panthers 2022 offseason
By Dean Jones
How will the Carolina Panthers replace Haason Reddick?
Perhaps it was a mistake for the Carolina Panthers to let Haason Reddick leave for the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency. The outside linebacker was a dominant pass-rushing force en route to 11 sacks in 2021 and although the price to keep him around was modest, those in power felt that the money could be better spent elsewhere.
Reddick’s production will be hard to replicate. However, the Panthers have done little to bolster their options in this area of the field this offseason, so they obviously think those already on the roster are capable of stepping up.
This task will likely fall primarily on Yetur Gross-Matos. The former second-round pick out of Penn State has shown tremendous promise from a rotational role over the first two seasons of his pro career and there should be even more to come with more reps in the starting lineup.
Carolina waived Joe Jackson, which was something of a surprise after defensive coordinator Phil Snow named him as someone who could possibly help out. This puts additional pressure on the likes of Frankie Luvu, Marquis Haynes, and free-agent signing Matt Ioannidis to make their presence felt throughout the campaign.
Of course, Brian Burns will be tasked with making another significant leap. The Pro Bowler attained nine sacks last time around, but more might be needed next season now that Reddick is no longer around.