4 Carolina Panthers players that must be extended after 2022 efforts
By Dean Jones
Bradley Bozeman – Carolina Panthers C
When the Carolina Panthers picked up Bradley Bozeman from the Baltimore Ravens in free agency, it was seen as another outstanding addition to the offensive line. However, head coach Matt Rhule seldom used him over the first five games, preferring underperforming veteran Pat Elflein instead.
Elflein did make major improvements compared to what we witnessed in 2021. But it was far from perfect and once Bozeman finally got an opportunity to start, it took the protection’s production to completely new heights.
The former Alabama star’s ability to pass protect and carve up running lanes was evident from start to finish. Bozeman’s communication at the line of scrimmage also assisted greatly and the lineman wasted no time in emerging as a leading presence within the community for good measure.
Bozeman finished with 680 snaps on offense for the Panthers in 2022. He gave up four penalties and conceded two sacks en route to a creditable 63.1 grade from Pro Football Focus, so keeping him around should be a top priority this offseason.
According to Spotrac, Bozeman could command an annual salary of $12 million on a three-year, $36 million deal. This is a steep price, but the Panthers must find a way to keep this offensive line together no matter the cost.