Carolina Panthers chose not to invest in Haason Reddick
The Carolina Panthers ended up getting one of 2021 free agency’s biggest steals when Haason Reddick came on board. His outstanding pass-rushing prowess coupled with gradual improvements on running downs was exactly what Phil Snow’s defense needed opposite Brian Burns, but it ended up being a short-term arrangement.
Although the Panthers outlined their desire to keep Reddick in some capacity, the reality was far different. Just a few short hours after the legal tampering period began, he chose to join the Philadelphia Eagles on a three-year, $45 million deal that included a $13.71 million signing bonus and $30 million guaranteed.
This might seem expensive. But guys with 23.5 sacks over the last two seasons don’t grow on trees and unless players such as Yetur Gross-Matos and Marquis Haynes enhance their respective contributions, letting Reddick walk will end up being a major regret that could hinder Carolina’s chances of progression.
There comes a time when you have to let promising young players step up to the plate. The Panthers are confident Gross-Matos can leap forward with additional responsibilities, with Haynes, sixth-rounder Amare Barno, and recent signing Henry Anderson rounding off the edge rushing depth chart.
Reddick landed in a good spot closer to home with a loaded Eagles roster that can contend in the NFC. But the important need for others to fill a gaping void in the wake of his departure cannot be understated.