5 early cap casualties the Carolina Panthers could target in 2023

Carolina Panthers could target Bobby Wagner

Perhaps the most high-profile name to be released aside from Derek Carr so far this offseason is Bobby Wagner. The perennial All-Pro linebacker was cut loose by the Los Angeles Rams as they go through a mini-rebuild of sorts, which makes him an extremely hot free agent as the legal tampering period draws ever closer.

Wagner knows all about Scott Fitterer from their time together with the Seattle Seahawks. This is also a position of some significant need for the Carolina Panthers and the linebacker remains one of the most productive second-level performers around despite approaching 33 years old.

This might be a short-term fix to an ongoing problem. But there’s just no telling what acquiring a future Pro Football Hall of Famer would do for Carolina’s defense as they look to enter the elite category under Ejiro Evero’s guidance.

Convincing Wagner to join would be tremendously difficult considering how many other teams are likely to target the player. However, if the front office can somehow do this, it instantly legitimizes the project Frank Reich is molding after separating himself from other head coaching candidates.

Acquiring Wanger might be a pipe dream for many fans. But if there’s one thing that Fitterer has demonstrated during his time as general manager, he’ll shoot his shot whether it comes off or not.