Dan Morgan’s roster overhaul is far from complete. The general manager has excelled at clearing out underperforming players and recruiting individuals who align with his vision. Despite significant progress, there is still much work to be done, but the Carolina Panthers are in a better position after a hectic recruitment period.
While the Panthers might be more competitive under new head coach Dave Canales next season, an immediate turnaround was never realistic. Morgan has acknowledged that not all of Carolina’s issues can be resolved in one offseason. Currently, there are still some critical gaps that could hinder the team in 2024.
Morgan plans to be active on the waiver wire before the season starts. Additionally, several veteran free agents could be valuable additions if the financial terms are favorable.
Carolina Panthers urged to sign Yannick Ngakoue in free agency
Enzo Flojo from Clutch Points has suggested that the Panthers should pursue edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue. Adding Ngakoue would provide defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero with another pass-rushing option alongside Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum.
“First and foremost, the [Carolina] Panthers must target veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue. Ngakoue’s ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays makes him an invaluable asset for any defense. Remember that he has recorded nearly 8.0 sacks per season over 2021-2023, maintaining his reputation as one of the league’s premier pass rushers. Take note that the Panthers’ defense struggled to generate consistent pressure last season. They would benefit immensely from Ngakoue’s presence. His quick first step and relentless motor could transform Carolina’s front seven into a feared unit. He would complement fellow veteran Shaq Thompson and fill the void left by Luvu, who’s now with the Commanders. Securing Ngakoue would not only improve their pass rush. It would also uplift the entire defense’s performance.”
The Panthers have a notable lack of depth in edge rushing. After trading Brian Burns to the New York Giants and losing Yetur Gross-Matos and Frankie Luvu in free agency, Clowney and Wonnum face significant pressure to stay healthy and perform consistently unless a young player steps up.
Ngakoue remains a potent edge rusher with 69 sacks over eight seasons, although his performance dipped with the Chicago Bears in 2023. While his acquisition could greatly benefit the Panthers, there are concerns. Ngakoue is not strong against the run, limiting him to a rotational pass-rushing role in Evero’s 3-4 scheme, which may not align with his expectations.
Additionally, the financial implications cannot be ignored. The Panthers have limited cap space, and signing Ngakoue would be expensive. Thus, Morgan might explore other options to strengthen the edge rush before the season starts.
Regardless of the direction Morgan takes, adding a reliable veteran alongside Clowney and Wonnum could be beneficial. However, Ngakoue may not be the most likely candidate.
