Carolina Panthers’ Pass Rush Dilemma
The Carolina Panthers faced a glaring issue with their pass rush in the 2024 season, finishing with a mere 32 sacks. Losing Brian Burns and attempting to replace him with an aging Jadeveon Clowney only exacerbated their struggles to pressure opposing quarterbacks. However, the Panthers have an opportunity to address this weakness as they set their sights on the upcoming free-agent market.
Chase Young: A Potential Solution
One intriguing prospect catching the Panthers’ attention is Chase Young, who recently played for the New Orleans Saints. Despite a somewhat quiet season, Young showcased his potential with 31 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and a career-high 21 quarterback hits. Selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders, Young’s career trajectory hinted at stardom early on, earning a Pro Bowl nod in his rookie year.
Injuries have plagued Young’s progression since then, leading him to potentially join his fourth NFL team this offseason if he doesn’t re-sign with the Saints. The Panthers emerge as a fitting destination for the 25-year-old edge rusher, aligning with their team’s timeline and offering a chance to fortify their front seven for years to come. With ample room for growth, Young, a product of Ohio State, could flourish in the right system and evolve into a dominant force on the field.
Strategic Move for the Panthers
Despite limited cap space, the Panthers could extend a multi-year deal to Young, enhancing their defense while simultaneously weakening a divisional rival like the Saints. While Young has yet to reach double-digit sacks in a single season, a change in scenery and system could unlock his full potential. The addition of Young to the Panthers’ roster not only addresses their pass rush needs but also signifies a strategic move to bolster their defense for the future.
As the Panthers gear up for the free-agent market, the potential acquisition of Chase Young could mark a significant turning point in their defensive capabilities, setting the stage for a formidable front seven in the seasons ahead.
