The Carolina Panthers spent a couple of days this past week wooing the most popular free agent on the market: former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. Carolina is of course familiar with McCoy’s game. After all, he has been a disruptive force in their backfield for almost a decade since he was drafted.
In 15 career meetings with the Panthers, McCoy has totaled 4.5 sacks, 10 quarterback hits and 11 tackles for a loss. He’s played well enough to earn the respect of his rivals. Pro Bowl guard Trai Turner called McCoy a real life savage after Tampa released him a couple weeks ago.
The respect goes both ways, apparently. Back in January of 2018, McCoy was a guest on The Dan Patrick Show. When he was asked about facing off against Cam Newton, McCoy said the game needs players like that. He also said that he loves competing against guys like Newton.
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McCoy has also taken visits with the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens. He’s reported to be taking the weekend to make his decision.
