Panthers potential free-agent targets beginning to emerge at rapid rate

Potential free-agent targets for the Carolina Panthers have begun to emerge as the team looks to kick on under new head coach Frank Reich in 2023.

It’s silly season around the league and now that the NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, things are heating up ahead of the all-important legal tampering period of free agency getting underway next week. For the Carolina Panthers, it’s vital they put the right foundations in place ahead of a crucial first campaign for Frank Reich and his all-star staff.

Some important decisions are on the immediate horizon before Carolina can think of incomings. Many established stars are looking for new deals, some players will be released ahead of time, and finding additional resources by contract restructures should also be among the team’s highest priorities.

Although money is tight right now, that might not be the case this time next week. And the rumor mill has already begun buzzing about which pending free agents could end up in Carolina next season.

Carolina Panthers linked to three established pending free agents

According to Joe Person of The Athletic, one of the potential targets is Mecole Hardman. The speedy wide receiver had some trouble staying healthy in 2022 – missing the Kansas City Chiefs’ run to another Super Bowl – but he has the speed to take the top off any defense when firing on all cylinders.

This is something the Panthers have lacked over the last few years despite the presence of Robbie – now Chosen – Anderson on their roster before he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. Acquiring Hardman won’t be cheap, but it’s something that holds weight considering how well-sourced Person is.

Another potential target that emerged on Monday came in the form of linebacker Bobby Okereke. Jordan Schultz of theScore.com stated that the imposing linebacker, who worked with Reich previously with the Indianapolis Colts, is being coveted by the Panthers.

The insider added that the market could be hot for Okereke, with the Chicago Bears also touted as a potential destination. Therefore, Reich would need to count on their previous working relationship and an exciting young defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero to get this deal over the line.

Perhaps the most surprising so far was the link to Jamaal Williams. Scott Fitterer has signaled his intent to work out a deal with D’Onta Foreman after a strong end to 2022, but this wouldn’t be a bad consolation prize by any stretch and there is also the presence of Duce Staley on the coaching staff – another important element to factor into this equation.

Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press stated that the Lions are working on an extension for Williams and met with his representatives at the NFL Scouting Combine. But time is of the essence and if he’s allowed to test the market, Carolina could put in a call.

And Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer further fanned the flames by stating from conversations in Indianapolis, many around the league believe the Panthers will be aggressive in finding a more productive pass-catching tight end. Whether that comes via free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft is another matter.

This is an exciting, nervous, and fascinating time for fans.

Keep your notifications on and enjoy the ride.