4 Carolina Panthers players earning new deals from their efforts in 2022
By Dean Jones
Matt Ioannidis – Carolina Panthers DT
When the Carolina Panthers signed Matt Ioannidis, it was seen as another former college player of Matt Rhule’s coming into the fold down on his luck. Something that was evident throughout his failed tenure and just one reason David Tepper cut his experiment short way ahead of time.
However, Ioannidis was not like the rest. He had proven production with the Washington Commanders but got lost amid a plethora of first-round selections acquired by the organization such as Chase Young, Montez Sweat, and Jonathan Allen.
Ioannidis wasted no tme in making his presence felt alongside Derrick Brown. The pair compliment each other extremely well and this stable force alongside the Auburn product on the interior has allowed him to take his game to completely new heights as a result.
Having a consistent partner at defensive tackle is something Brown hasn’t enjoyed since entering the league. Injury problems to Kawann Short and DaQuan Jones leaving after just one season for the Buffalo Bills dictated this, but the Panthers can solidify their anchor by extending Ioannidis when the time comes.
Whether the Temple product will want to sign is another matter. Rhule and ex-defensive coordinator Phil Snow are no longer around, which could play a role in his overall thought process before free agency hits.