Carolina Panthers were wise to avoid Jonathan Greenard
As previously stated, the Carolina Panthers are on the lookout for a legitimate pass-rushing threat. Someone capable of filling the gaping void left by Brian Burns after his contract stalemate ended with the player being traded to the New York Giants for a second-round pick in 2024 and a fifth-rounder next year.
While the compensation wasn't ideal, the Panthers lost leverage in this situation long ago. Finding players to produce consistently has been a stumbling block up to now, although they haven't given up hope with Jadeven Clowney and D.J. Wonnum should be able to assist in some capacity.
There was probably a temptation to address this need by going after a free agent looking at the options available. The Panthers thought twice, instead deciding to spend lavishly on Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis - two formidable interior offensive linemen who should bring a level of consistency and nastiness that was sorely lacking last time around.
This might have been a good thing looking at the contract Jonathan Greenard received from the Minnesota Vikings. The edge rushing presence secured a four-year, $76 million deal after gaining 12.5 sacks in 2023. This was a whopping sum considering it's the only season where he's reached double-digit sacks as a professional.
If the Panthers weren't willing to pay Burns top dollar, then they were wise to overlook players like Greenard.