5 free agents the Panthers should sign for added camp competition in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Carlos Dunlap
As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers could use some help on their defensive front after losing both DaQuan Jones and Haason Reddick in free agency. This bears more significance in terms of pass-rushing options given how much the former Temple star impacted proceedings in 2021 en route to 11 sacks.
This is something the Panthers recently explored by bringing in Carlos Dunlap for a visit during the team’s mandatory minicamp. Although the defensive end left without a deal, the door hasn’t been closed and is an option Carolina might approach once again shortly before training camp.
Dunlap is a proven performer who put up some good numbers as part of the Seattle Seahawks rotation in 2021. The former second-round pick is a two-time Pro Bowler with 98 career sacks, which makes him the best free-agent option remaining in this critical area of the field.
Adding Dunlap to a defensive end room that also boasts Brian Burns, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Marquis Haynes would be a massive asset to call upon. It would also provide the Panthers with another strong veteran presence during a pivotal third season for head coach Matt Rhule.
There is much more to this than just money. The move also has to be right for Dunlap in terms of his role within the set-up and just where the Panthers are in terms of contending.
In an ideal world, Dunlap can get a full training camp under his belt. But he is experienced enough to keep himself in peak physical condition until another team comes knocking.