5 post-camp cut candidates the Panthers should monitor in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers should monitor Malik Reed
- Outside Linebacker | Denver Broncos
Malik Reed perhaps deserves more credit than he’s given. The outside linebacker deputized well for Von Miller during the 2020 season and did the same to compensate for Bradley Chubb missing a considerable portion of time in 2021.
With that being said, there is an incredible amount of competition if Reed wants to carve out a role for himself with the Denver Broncos next season. Chubb is back and ready to reach double-digit sacks once again and the team also shelled out big bucks to acquire Randy Gregory from the Dallas Cowboys.
Gregory’s immediate status is in doubt due to injury, which enhances Reed’s claims for a prominent depth chart position short term. However, with former second-round pick Nic Bonitto also looking for playing time, the veteran could be on the outside looking in.
Reed’s 13 sacks over the last two seasons mean he would be a hot commodity on the waiver wire if the Broncos eventually parted ways. As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers are looking for pass-rushing assistance, so it seems like a good fit for all parties involved.
Reed could also help from a coverage standpoint. An area where the Panthers also struggled at times during the 2021 season across the second level.