5 free-agent defensive linemen the Carolina Panthers could sign in 2023
By Luke Gray
Carolina Panthers could sign Greg Gaines
If the Carolina Panthers are looking for a more long-term option on the defensive line, Greg Gaines could come into the equation. With the new 3-4 base system under Ejiro Evero, the defense needs a solid option at nose tackle, and while rookie Marquan McCall flashed, that shouldn’t stop alternatives from being sought.
Since becoming a starter in 2021, Gaines has produced well. In his two starting seasons, the former Washington star has 91 tackles and 8.5 sacks on his way to collecting a ring in 2021 with the Los Angeles Rams.
Gaines has spent his last two years as a starter lining up alongside a dominant defensive tackle in Aaron Donald. While not at that level yet, Derrick Brown is developing into a top-10 player at the position.
The lineman also has experience with some of the Panthers’ coaches. Ejiro Evero and Jonathon Cooley both coached in Los Angeles while Gaines was a player there. This should smooth the transition to a different environment if this scenario came to fruition.
Spotrac projects his contract to be around $7.5 million a year. This gives Carolina a more affordable option and at just 25 years old, Gaines has many fruitful years ahead in the league.