4 high-risk free agents the Carolina Panthers could target in 2023
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Yannick Ngakoue
As stated previously, finding another explosive pass-rusher is arguably second on the Carolina Panthers’ wish list behind a franchise quarterback. Unless Brian Burns gets some help, then teams will find it easy to pick apart a secondary that comes into the upcoming campaign with a few concerns.
One anticipates the Panthers might allocate one of their Day 2 picks on an edge defender. Even if this is always a crap shoot that might not bring an upturn in production right away.
Good pass-rushing veterans rarely hit the open market. And when they do, the cost is normally astronomical depending on their age and consistency.
With that being said, Yannick Ngakoue is a potential acquisition that worked with Frank Reich last season on the Indianapolis Colts. It’s been a colorful ride from one stop to the next in recent years, but 19.5 sacks over the last two seasons indicate the former third-round selection has plenty to offer.
Ngakoue can go missing in games, which is a concern. He is also inconsistent on running downs, which was a constant thorn in Carolina’s side under Matt Rhule and something that must improve with a new coaching regime in charge.
The financial demands Ngakoue’s representatives are going to demand will be vast after getting his career back on track. If it all goes wrong, then the fingers of blame fall directly on Scott Fitterer this time around.
Must Read. 4 former Carolina Panthers players that could return in 2023. light