7 free agents the Carolina Panthers must aggressively pursue in 2023
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must pursue DeMarcus Walker
- Defensive End | Tennessee Titans
Letting Haason Reddick test the free-agent market and sign for the Philadelphia Eagles was a grave error in judgment by the Carolina Panthers. Although one cannot dismiss the notion he wanted to leave in pursuit of a legitimate chance of contending.
Reddick is gearing up for a Super Bowl and the Panthers are searching for another defensive end after Yetur Gross-Matos fluffed his lines opposite Brian Burns. Just 2.5 sacks was an extreme disappointment following his promotion to the starting lineup, which should see the Penn State product relegated to rotational duties once again in 2023.
The 2023 NFL Draft class is extremely strong where productive pass-rushers are concerned. However, there are a few enticing options on the free-agent market that shouldn’t be ignored.
DeMarcus Walker fits the mold and could be ready to assume legitimate starting responsibilities after a career year on the Tennessee Titans rotation. His relentless motor and ever-improving pass-rushing repertoire would provide a massive boost to the Panthers, but going down the college route is undoubtedly cheaper in the grand scheme of things.
Tennessee will likely fight hard to keep the former second-round pick given his ongoing progress. Walker is only going to get better after such a confidence-boosting campaign, which means the market might be hot if he cannot agree on terms with the Titans.
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