NFL Free Agent Rumors: Carolina Panthers could show interest in Sidney Rice

Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

The Carolina Panthers have thrown a ton of cash at their existing players, and they’re going to need to continue to do that for the likes of Cam Newton and Luke Keuchly in a few years. But while the team has money issues, they’re still going to go out this offseason and explore all options when it comes to getting even better in 2014.

According to ESPN.com blogger David Newton, the Panthers could consider hometown receiver Sidney Rice in free agency.

"Sidney Rice, who grew up an hour away in Gaffney, S.C., has been mentioned since he was released by Seattle. Again, it will depend on the price if the Panthers pursue a player like him. My best advice is to look at free agent lists and circle some of the middle-tier guys."

Now, there’s no guarantee that the Panthers will go after Rice but if he comes cheap enough he might not be a bad option. Carolina needs to find targets for Newton and while he did well with what he had last season, adding a lanky threat like Rice could be immensely beneficial.