Defensive end Mario Addison is going to test the free-agent market this offseason, though the Panthers have shown interest in bringing Addison back, according to ESPN’s David Newton.
Addison has become one of the leaders in the Carolina edge group and in the locker room as one of the strong veteran presences, especially since Julius Peppers retired. As Newton notes, no Panther has more sacks in the last four years than Addison, with 39.
Addison would at least bring some continuity to the defensive line if they bring him back, as the unit is set to undergo major changes. Dontari Poe will not have his option picked up and Gerald McCoy, Vernon Butler, Kyle Love and Bruce Irvin are all set to become free agents.
Carolina doesn’t have much behind Brian Burns along the edge heading into the offseason so bringing Addison back would keep the veteran presence in the group, but it sounds like a true 50/50 chance that Addison will be back.
