4 free agents in Super Bowl 57 the Panthers should target in 2023

(Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) T.J. Edwards
(Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) T.J. Edwards /
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(Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports) Brandon Graham /

Carolina Panthers could target Brandon Graham

After taking the wrong decision with Haason Reddick before free agency last year, the Carolina Panthers have to improve their pass-rushing options before the new campaign. Relying on Brian Burns alone just isn’t going to cut it, especially with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero relying heavily on generating pressure within his progressive 3-4 base system.

Again, all options should be explored in the 2023 NFL Draft. It looks like a strong class of edge defenders – especially at the top end – and the Panthers have seven selections in the top 150 after trading Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers.

If those in power go down the veteran route, then Brandon Graham represents a short-term solution that could make an immediate contribution. The former first-round pick showed no signs of slowing down despite switching to a rotational role in 2022, gaining 11 sacks and helping the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive front become one of the league’s most feared along the way.

Graham is a little long in the tooth and might not be after a new challenge at this stage of his career. But with Fletcher Cox and Javon Hargreave also looking for paydays, there might not be enough money to go around.

If the Panthers do end up targeting Graham, the player is likely to seek assurances. Primarily, whether this team is ready to make a postseason splash in the first year of Frank Reich’s reign.