Which Carolina Panthers players must be re-signed as a matter of urgency before the all-important 2023 free agency period begins?
The Carolina Panthers have formally concluded their duties at the NFL Scouting Combine, so immediate attention turns to free agency ahead of the legal tampering period. This is a critical stage of the planning process and something those in power must knock out of the park in 2023.
While the Panthers aren’t blessed with much financial wiggle room right now, there is a chance to gain enough to spend through early releases and restructures. Anything less would significantly complicate matters ahead of the NFL Draft.
Scott Fitterer and his staff have some hard work ahead. First on the list is taking care of their own and retaining some players that could be of significant use next season.
With this in mind, here are three Panthers players that must be re-signed as a matter of urgency in the coming days.
Player No. 1
Bradley Bozeman – Carolina Panthers C
This is an absolute must. The definition of a no-brainer.
Bradley Bozeman‘s influence on and off the field was remarkable in 2022. The Carolina Panthers need to reward the player accordingly because losing him in free agency would be a devastating blow.
The former Alabama star is coming into his own as a player and leader. These individuals are hard to find and those in power should be fully aware of what a gem they have in their starting center.
D’Onta Foreman – Carolina Panthers RB
After coming to the fore in a huge way last season, D’Onta Foreman is in a decent position heading into 2023 free agency. The running back looked like a true workhorse after the Carolina Panthers traded Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers, forming a dynamic one-two punch alongside Chuba Hubbard that interim head coach Steve Wilks depended on heavily down the stretch.
Foreman was tabbed as being a high priority by general manager Scott Fitterer and head coach Frank Reich if the terms work for all parties. New assistant head coach/running backs coach Duce Staley also tabbed the former Texas stud as someone he’s eager to work with next season.
"“Super high. Super high for me. But you know, my last name ain’t Fitterer.”"
Although Reich’s scheme will be more dependent on passing the football, the respected figurehead also highlighted the importance of establishing the run game. Paying running backs is a contentious topic across the league in recent years, so Fitterer won’t want this jeopardizing other areas that are in desperate need of improvements before the campaign.
Foreman’s already highlighted his desire to remain in Carolina. He also has the consistent production to back up claims for an extended stay next season and in the coming years.
However, the NFL is a business. So it’ll be interesting to see how this situation concludes before the legal tampering period.
Matt Ioannidis – Carolina Panthers DL
The Carolina Panthers are switching to a 3-4 base defense under new defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. Although this plans to chop and change plenty depending on the situation, having as many experienced players as possible to cope with this transition is of paramount importance.
Adding to their options, especially the pass-rushing aspect, is guaranteed. However, getting a deal done with Matt Ioannidis is also something that should be relatively high on Carolina’s list of priorities.
Ioannidis was one of the few former Matt Rhule college players that ended up working out. More importantly, he also has previous experience in a 3-4 scheme during his time with the Washington Commanders.
There was a lot to like about the way Ioannidis applied himself alongside Derrick Brown on the defensive line interior last season. His campaign was cut short by injury, but Evero’s arrival potentially bolsters his hopes of earning a new contract to remain in Carolina.
Again, this will depend on how much the player wants and for how long. But the benefits of keeping Ioannidis on the books are evident as the Panthers get set for some major defensive changes with Evero leading the charge.
Continuity is the keyword here. And Ioannidis has enough in his locker to thrive in the expansive system being implemented by Evero.