5 potential salary-cap casualties for the Carolina Panthers in 2023

Damien Wilson – Carolina Panthers LB

• Dead-cap figure – $1.07 million
• Cap savings – $3.61 million

Damien Wilson’s arrival in free agency was seen as a solid bit of business by the Carolina Panthers. The linebacker is a consistent performer that has a Super Bowl ring from his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, which could assist greatly as the defense attempts to fill the gaping void left by Luke Kuechly.

Wilson didn’t get off to the best start in Carolina after a recent arrest that came with some concerning allegations. So if things emerge that raise further concern, then we might not see the player ever turn out for the Panthers, after all.

Working on the premise that Wilson will be around next season and for the duration of his deal, his experience and ability to produce on running downs will be needed in 2022. This also seems like a good fit for Wilson alongside Shaq Thompson and Frankie Luvu at the second level.

If Wilson cannot raise his game in a different environment, then the Panthers will be on the lookout for their fourth middle linebacker starter in as many seasons since Kuechly retired to preserve his long-term health. This comes with a dead-cap sum of $1.07 million and savings of $3.61 million that could be better spent elsewhere.

It’s right to adopt a wait-and-see approach with Wilson. But the Panthers would be wise to put some sort of contingency plan in place to prevent complications if the worst happens regarding potential charges.