4 former Panthers with legitimate shot at Super Bowl glory in 2022
By Dean Jones
Haason Reddick – Former Carolina Panthers OLB
When Haason Reddick came to the Carolina Panthers in 2021, his impact in a short space of time was astonishing. The edge rusher provided an immediate upgrade opposite Brian Burns on the defensive front, gaining 11 sacks and putting himself in a commanding position when the time for contract negotiations began.
The Panthers had a big decision to make where Reddick was concerned. After some lengthy debate, those in power opted to let him test the market, banking on Yetur Gross-Matos to step in and fill the void.
As far as decisions go, this was one of the worst in recent memory for the franchise. Reddick signed for the Philadelphia Eagles on a three-year, $45 million deal with a $14.21 million signing bonus and $30 million guaranteed, which quickly became a steal based on his phenomenal production.
Reddick was absolutely relentless for the Eagles in 2022 en route to 16 sacks, 26 quarterback hits, five forced fumbles, 41 pressures, and an 81.1 grade from Pro Football Focus. More importantly, his contribution resulted in a second-team All-Pro honor and played a leading role in Philadelphia securing the NFC’s No. 1 seed.
Carolina didn’t get anything like similar performance levels from Gross-Matos and will now seek alternative options this offseason. Had they paid Reddick what he deserved, it’s a different story.