Carolina Panthers free agency 2020: Top 5 targets
By Jon Dove
4. Michael Brockers, defensive tackle
It’s looking increasingly likely that the Carolina Panthers will lose some key players along the defensive line. This is especially true at defensive end, where both Gerald McCoy and Vernon Butler are hitting free agency.
The Panthers would be able to fill this void with Michael Brockers. He would bring a veteran presence and someone capable of controlling the line of scrimmage.
Brockers isn’t someone who’ll generate pressure on the quarterback. He is the type who eats up blocks and stuffs the run. This will limit his overall free agent market and the amount of money he could expect to receive.
Carolina doesn’t have a ton of cap space, but needs to find a starting caliber defensive end this offseason. The Panthers don’t necessarily need Brockers to be a pass rusher, as those duties would fall to Kawann Short and Brian Burns.
It’ll be interesting to see how Brockers’ market develops. He may opt to take a little less money to play for a team ready to compete for a Super Bowl. The Panthers have some potential, but overall they are on the outside looking in.
If they feel they need a complete rebuild, then Brockers really won’t fit as a target.