5 free agents the Carolina Panthers could still pursue

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JANUARY 15: Emmanuel Sanders #1 of the Buffalo Bills scores a touchdown against Joejuan Williams #33 of the New England Patriots during the third quarter in the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Highmark Stadium on January 15, 2022 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /

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LANDOVER, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Danny Shelton #75 of the New York Giants celebrates a field goal during the third quarter against the Washington Football Team at FedExField on September 16, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

4. DT Danny Shelton (New York Giants)

The Carolina Panthers started 2021 with three consecutive wins. The club forced three turnovers (all interceptions) thanks mainly to a pass rush that accumulated an impressive 14 sacks in victories over the Jets, Saints, and Texans.

But Carolina came away with only 25 quarterback traps in their final 14 outings and finished with only 16 takeaways in 17 contests.

All told, the Panthers allowed the second-fewest total yards in the league and ranked fourth in the NFL vs. the pass. But that defensive success is somewhat deceptive considering Carolina was a mediocre 18th vs. the run.

Adding bulky veteran Danny Shelton, who has played for four teams in seven seasons and 2021 with the New York Giants, could be a plus.

3. WR Emmanuel Sanders (Buffalo Bills)

He has spent time with four different teams over the past three seasons. Veteran wideout Emmanuel Sanders brings a lot to the table in terms of production and playoff experience.

He spent 2021 with the Buffalo Bills and 2020 with the New Orleans Saints. This after being dealt by the Broncos to the San Francisco 49ers during the 2019 season.

He was part of a Denver team that won Super Bowl 50 and played in Super Bowl LIV for Kyle Shanahan’s club.

Sanders, who began his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, caught 42 passes for 626 yards and four scores for Sean McDermott’s club this past year.

He’s reached the playoffs with all five franchises he has played for and was a member of three Super Bowl teams, appearing in a total of 15 postseason contests.

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