The Panthers got more than just a big name when they signed former Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy to a one-year deal last week. They added one of the league’s most consistent interior defensive linemen from year to year. Even though he’s been in the NFL since the 2010 season, McCoy is still playing at a high level.
Here’s a look at McCoy’s career grades from Pro Football Focus.
As you can see, aside from some early growing pains and a fluke 2015 season, McCoy has consistently ranked among PFF’s top tackles.
One possible hitch is McCoy has not played in a 3-4 defensive scheme before. That is part of the reason Tampa Bay released him, with new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles switching the Bucs to a 3-4 defense. McCoy seems unconcerned about the change, though. He told reporters last week if you can play, you can play.
Most likely, in those sets he will align next to Dontari Poe at the 3-4 end spot, with Kawann Short on the other side.
