4 Carolina Panthers players who could be one-and-done in 2023
By Dean Jones
Matt Ioannidis – Carolina Panthers DT
Matt Rhule’s preference for bringing in his former college players was renowned. And aside from one or two contributions, the additions were largely underwhelming and another reason why the head coach was fired after five games in 2022.
Haason Reddick was the exception to this rule last season. The production provided by Matt Ioannidis is another ex-Temple star that was a good bit of business by the Carolina Panthers following his release by the Washington Commanders.
Ioannidis is a proven performer that got lost among all the first-round selections across Washington’s defensive front. Aside from a frustrating spell out through injury, the interior lineman’s been a consistent force and a tremendous partner for Derrick Brown, who’s come of age with the veteran by his side.
Although keeping Ioannidis around is entirely possible, there are financial implications to consider in this scenario. Carolina isn’t blessed with much salary-cap space right now, so if influential figures within the organization feel the money isn’t right, a situation could emerge where the Panthers go in a different direction.
The NFL is a business above all else. Nobody would complain if Ioannidis got a multi-year deal, but it’s not always that simple when push comes to shove.