Panthers depth chart focus: How much can OL improve in 2022?
By Dean Jones
The free-agent signings
There were thankfully no rash decisions in free agency for the Carolina Panthers in 2022. Certainly not the sort of moves that saw the team vastly overpay for Cam Erving and Pat Elflein within hours of the legal tampering period getting underway.
A more methodical approach with minimal financial outlay was a nice change of pace. It also saw the Panthers secure two top veteran offensive linemen who should make their presence felt right from the outset.
Bradley Bozeman was a tremendous bit of business by the Panthers on a one-year deal. His production on the Baltimore Ravens in 2021 was outstanding and this should upgrade the center position to a level Carolina hasn’t seen since Ryan Kalil hung up his cleats.
Another new recruit arrives after playing a significant role in the Los Angeles Rams’ memorable Super Bowl triumph. Austin Corbett is mean, can run block, and also possesses enough footwork to cope well in pass protection to go along with his strong leadership skills.
These two players will instantly slot into the starting lineup. Couple this with Ikem Ekwonu’s arrival and other valuable players already on the roster, and things might be looking up for a group that has been a constant source of disappointment over recent years.