5 free agents the Panthers should sign for added camp competition in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Star Lotulelei
One area that seems to be short on depth is across the defensive line. Unless some young guns make significant leaps forward, then it would be wise for the Carolina Panthers to seek an immediate difference-maker is worth considering.
Star Lotulelei is familiar to the Panthers organization and would provide everyone with a big lift. The formidable defensive tackle spent the first five seasons of his career in Carolina, emerging as a stout force against the run that could generate eye-catching pressure from the interior when required.
Lotulelei then moved to the Buffalo Bills in 2018 free agency, helping their defense become a real force despite not quite getting over the hump and into a Super Bowl. Opting out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 health concerns derailed his progress slightly and those in power deemed him surplus to requirements after snapping up former Panthers lineman DaQuan Jones in free agency.
This makes a ton of sense providing Lotulelei still has something left in the tank. He already knows the franchise and what makes the fans tick, can provide instant leadership and accountability within the locker room, and based on talent alone is a certainty to make the 53-man roster.
Whether the former first-round pick is waiting around for a contender remains to be seen. But the benefits of signing Lotulelei or someone similar is there for all to see.