5 free-agent linebackers the Carolina Panthers could sign in 2023

Carolina Panthers could sign Lavonte David

Despite the mileage traveled in his career, Lavonte David is still an All-Pro caliber linebacker at 33 years old. Any deal made to bring him to the Carolina Panthers would turn the linebacking core from good to elite.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have run a 3-4 defense in their last few seasons like the one Ejiro Evero will bring to Carolina. David thrived in that system and would be a great fit in the middle of the Panthers’ defense.

David’s talent is apparent, but he has also played in the NFC South for his entire career. He is familiar with what the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons do, which could ensure a completely smooth transition in this scenario.

If David plays against Tampa Bay, he has inside information about their strategies and schemes that would be beneficial to both Carolina’s defense and offense. Something that would give them a leg-up in the planning process.

Despite the clear positives from signing David, the Panthers would have to pay a lot of money to bring him in. Other teams will also be pursuing the star linebacker if he tests the market.

Even still, a one or two-year deal to bring him to Carolina would show serious intentions to contend and massively upgrade an already good front-seven.