4 Panthers players who might have already peaked before 2022
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players may have already peaked from a production standpoint as the team gets set for a crucial 2022 season?
The stakes could not be much higher for the Carolina Panthers next season. There is no margin for error after three-straight five-win years and little for fans to cheer, so if things cannot progress effectively in 2022 then the calls for change will be nothing short of deafening.
This added sense of urgency is something that could help the Panthers. They also have another new quarterback to depend upon after finally striking a deal to land Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns.
Just how much Mayfield can move the needle remains to be seen. But it only adds to the immense level of intrigue surrounding the Panthers next season.
It must be a collective effort to reach the levels expected. However, here are four Panthers players who might have already reached their peak in terms of production before 2022.
Player No. 1
Matt Ioannidis – Carolina Panthers DT
It didn’t take a genius to figure out that the Carolina Panthers were going to target Matt Ioannidis following his release by the Washington Commanders. The defensive lineman comes with some encouraging production up to the 2020 campaign and is close with Matt Rhule, but it’s been difficult ever since to stake a claim on a line littered with exceptional talent.
Ioannidis will likely play alongside Derrick Brown on the interior in 2022. The veteran is also on the lookout for a new deal next spring in Carolina or elsewhere after betting on himself with a one-year agreement with his new employers.
This should provide the former Temple standout with all the motivation needed. But a scenario could emerge where the player’s best days are behind him.