Ranking the 10 best Carolina Panthers players from 2022 season

Frankie Luvu – Carolina Panthers OLB

• 7 sacks
• 111 tackles
• 19 tackles for loss
• 4 passes defended
• 1 interception
• 1 defensive touchdown

When Frankie Luvu originally signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2021, he was anticipated to be a rotational linebacker. When thinking about the defense now, it is hard to imagine where it would be without No. 49.

Luvu stepped into the starting linebacker role next to Shaq Thompson and immediately became a playmaker on defense. He made several momentum-shifting plays throughout the season – doing it in coverage, against the run, and rushing the passer.

He has become one of the most versatile defenders in the NFL, and Luvu has the stats to prove it with seven sacks, one interception, 111 tackles, and 19 tackles for loss.

Those statistics are incredible. Luvu is also one of three players (Lavonte David, Luke Kuechly) since 2000 to record 100+ tackles and 19+ tackles for loss in a single season.

Luvu has the natural instincts to be a linebacker. He flows to the ball very well and does not hesitate when he reads where the play is going.

The one-time Washington State star has one more season under contract in Carolina. Scott Fitterer and the front office need to extend him the first opportunity they get if they want to field a playoff-level team down the road.