Which linebackers could the Carolina Panthers potentially target after Justin Strnad's surprising U-turn to stay with the Denver Broncos?
The Carolina Panthers seemed to secure some additional linebacker depth after reports surfaced about Justin Strnad agreeing to link up with Ejiro Evero once again on a one-year deal. They had a previous working relationship from their time together on the Denver Broncos, which has been almost a prerequisite for any new defensive signing this offseason after the coordinator lost several established stars.
But as always in the NFL, it's not over until it's over.
Strnad decided on a last-minute U-turn, signing a new deal with the Broncos instead. While his contribution to the defensive rotation was minimal at best, the former fifth-round selection emerged into a decent backup and solid special teams contributor. This might be an indication of what the Panthers are looking for at some stage during the offseason.
With this in mind, here are four linebackers the Panthers could target after Strnad's change of heart.
Carolina Panthers could re-sign Kamu Grugier-Hill
If the Carolina Panthers are seeking a dependable rotational presence who can play a role on special teams, then re-signing Kamu Grugier-Hill wouldn't be the worst idea in the world. He caught the eye on occasions last season and already has previous knowledge of Ejiro Evero's defensive demands. He's also unlikely to cost the earth at this stage of his career.
The Panthers haven't made a longer commitment to Grugier-Hill as yet. Their decision to target Justin Strnad could mean he's not in their immediate plans. Still, the option is there following this latest development.
Carolina Panthers could sign Khaleke Hudson
Although defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero seems to be banging the table hard for players he's worked with previously, thinking outside the box should also be considered. The Carolina Panthers seem to be transferring investment from the defense to offensive matters to ensure quarterback Bryce Young gets a fair shake next season. That's going to come with complications unless everyone isn't fully aware of their responsibilities under the future head coach's expansive 3-4 base scheme.
Evero needs athletes in the worst possible way. If they can help on special teams for good measure, then the Panthers would be wise to turn over every stone in pursuit of finding the right fit. Someone like Khaleke Hudson comes with more upside than most still sitting on the proverbial scrap heap.
There was quiet optimism surrounding a potential breakout campaign for Hudson in 2023. He was expected to generate starting reps after flashing in Week 18 of the 2022 season against the Dallas Cowboys. Unfortunately for the player, head coach Ron Rivera had other ideas.
The Washington Commanders made Hudson a bystander over the first few weeks. Thanks to the woeful efforts of Cody Barton, the former fifth-round pick was introduced into the lineup, starting eight games, and reaching 74 tackles. There were some deficiencies in coverage, but one could blame the team's non-existent pressure after trading Montez Sweat and Chase Young for that.
Hudson is unlikely to return under Washington's new regime. He's got proven production as a rotational presence and featured on 73 percent of special teams snaps last season. The Panthers could do far worse, that's for sure.
Carolina Panthers could draft Tommy Eichenberg
Of course, the cheapest solution to this dilemma is going down the draft route. The Carolina Panthers don't have a first-round pick to call upon, but they boast seven other selections across the remaining rounds to find immediate difference-makers and solidify depth.
After the Panthers signed Josey Jewell to replace Frankie Luvu and with Shaq Thompson coming back from injury, second-level depth with the scope to contribute from a starting capacity over time represents the best course of action. In the meantime, their chosen prospect can help right out of the gate as a development special teamer.
There are several intriguing candidates in this scenario. Tommy Eichenberg would fit this mold perfectly. The Ohio State prospect possesses some old-school linebacker traits that will no doubt endear him to new general manager Dan Morgan. He's got proven production over three years with the Buckeyes to back this up.
Eichenberg is an instinctive run defender with a short-area burst to hit the contact point quickly. He's got good instincts for play development, is relentless in pursuit, and likes nothing more than inflicting punishment once he gets to the ball carrier. The prospect has some work to do from a coverage standpoint, but the athleticism at his disposal suggests strides can be made under Ejiro Evero's guidance.
Analysts expect Eichenberg to be drafted somewhere between Rounds 3-5. Providing other needs are addressed beforehand, the Panthers might have room for this pick when push comes to shove.
Carolina Panthers could draft Ty'Ron Hopper
As previously mentioned, the Carolina Panthers seem to have their two starting middle linebackers sown up. Josey Jewell knows Ejiro Evero well and should slot into the lineup seamlessly. Shaq Thompson is ready to go after recovering from a long-term injury issue. He also took a pay cut to stick around, which speaks volumes about his team-first mindset.
The fact Carolina identified Justin Strnad as a player of interest before he went back to the Denver Broncos highlights their need to bolster depth. Although he's very much a work in progress, Ty'Ron Hopper's athletic intangibles are worthy of consideration during Dan Morgan's thorough pre-draft evaluations.
Hopper is fast, dynamic, and makes things happen. He's an agile mover whose game has come on significantly from a coverage standpoint. This is matched by enough explosiveness to get after the quarterback in obvious pass-rushing situations.
There is a nice flow to Hopper's game film. Everything seems to happen naturally for the player. Improving his tackling technique and adding to his pass-rushing repertoire could help take his game to new heights at the next level.
This looks like a perfect depth candidate who can thrive on special teams from the moment he steps onto the field. Projections seem to think Hopper will be taken between Rounds 3-4. That potentially makes him a viable candidate for the Panthers once other needs are met.