The Panthers clearly want to address their offensive line first in free agency. Already, there’s been two reported deals in the works.
Adam Schefter at ESPN says Carolina and guard/center Pat Elflein have agreed to a three-year, $13.5 million deal.
Former Jets' OL Pat Elflein reached agreement on a three-year, $13.5 million deal including $6 million fully guaranteed with the Carolina Panthers, per source.
Elflein's agent, @FeinsodJonathan, confirmed his player intends to sign with Carolina.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2021
Now, Jeremy Fowler at ESPN says the Panthers are also working on a two-year contract with free agent offensive tackle Cameron Erving.
Offensive tackle Cam Erving and the Carolina Panthers are working on a deal for two years and $10 million with $8 million guaranteed, per source.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 15, 2021
Just thrilling stuff to begin free agency, here.
Erving has played 75 games in his NFL career so far between the Chiefs, Browns and Cowboys. Like Elflein, he offers offensive line depth. He probably won’t be starting, though. Taylor Moton is locked in at right tackle after signing his $13.75 million franchise tag and the Panthers likely won’t be starting Erving at left tackle unless something goes horribly wrong these next few months.
Our best guess is coach Matt Rhule sees Erving as a swing tackle who can backup Moton and whoever starts on the blindside. If the Panthers don’t re-sign Russell Okung odds are they will look to pick a left tackle prospect in the early rounds of the draft.
