3 free agents the Panthers should avoid in the 2021 offseason

1. Anthony Harris

It’s hard to envision a scenario where the Panthers construct a high-level secondary while starting Tre Boston and Juston Burris as their safeties. That could force Rhule and his staff to dip into free agency for an upgrade.

Some scouts believe Harris is the top option available in this year’s free agent class. His ability to make plays on the ball in coverage is what differentiates him from other players at his position. At his best, Harris is a classic ball hawk who can provide opposing quarterbacks real problems when he’s roaming the deep third of the field.

The problem with Harris entering free agency is that he’s coming off a decidedly mediocre season for the Vikings. Paying big money to a 30-year-old who only managed a PFF grade of 66.2 last season is a poor decision for a young team like the Panthers.

The right strategy for Carolina would be to look to secure a better bargain. Someone like Marcus Maye could provide just as much production as Harris over the next few years at a significantly lower price. The draft could also yield a higher-upside player for the Panthers.

Harris is going to get a big deal from someone due to his ability to produce turnovers, but the Panthers aren’t the right landing spot for the former Virginia standout.