Carolina Panthers free agency 2019: Top 5 targets

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 17: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints in the third quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 17: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints in the third quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 5
Next
CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 09: Daryl Williams #60 of the Carolina Panthers takes the field against the Dallas Cowboys before their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 09: Daryl Williams #60 of the Carolina Panthers takes the field against the Dallas Cowboys before their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

2. Daryl Williams

Two years ago Williams was clearly Carolina’s best offensive lineman. Then injury struck and ruined his 2018 season. He may not be hitting free agency at the perfect time, but plenty of teams will be interested in giving him a chance to prove he can regain his Pro Bowl form.

The Panthers know just how good Williams can be better than any other franchise. That’s why you should fully expect them to be serious players in his free agency. They aren’t going to let him go without a serious fight.

It’s still possible the bidding for Williams could get crazy. Don’t forget that the Panthers also have more medical information about their tackle than any other team. If they bow out of the race at any reasonable price, it should be a huge red flag for teams still interested in signing him.

We still believe that re-signing Williams is going to be one of Carolina’s top priorities heading into the offseason. They need to secure an upgrade at left tackle too, but that won’t matter if they can’t keep pressure out of Newton’s face.