Carolina Panthers free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 04: Taylor Moton #72 of the Carolina Panthers blocks Zach Allen #94 of the Arizona Cardinals during the first quarter of their game at Bank of America Stadium on October 04, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

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Panthers free agency rumors, Leonard Williams

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – DECEMBER 27: Defensive end Leonard Williams #99 of the New York Giants warms up before the start of their game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on December 27, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

3. Leonard Williams

The Panthers spent a first round pick on Derrick Brown last year to help rebuild their defensive line. He met expectations during his rookie campaign, but it won’t prevent Carolina from dipping into free agency to get him some help.

In particular, the team will look to replace Kawann Short on the inside. Adding a defender capable of strengthening Carolina’s efforts against both the run and pass should be the priority. Williams isn’t an elite pass-rusher, but he is a very good run defender. Pairing him with Brown on the inside would give the Panthers a tackle tandem to build around for years to come.

Carolina’s hope is that Williams’ lack of sacks will keep prevent his price in free agency from becoming exorbitant. The Giants, led by former Panthers’ GM Dave Gettleman could make him a big offer to stay in New York. If they aren’t willing to break the bank, it could leave things open for Fitterer to get one over on a guy who held his job previously.

Williams is still young enough to comfortably offer him a four or five-year deal without too much concern. He’s a free agent the Panthers should look to lock up for the long haul. As long as the asking price stays below $20 million per season then Carolina should remain engaged in negotiations.

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