Panthers Free Agency Grades (So Far)
Panthers sign OL Cam Erving to 2 years $10 million deal
While surprising that the Panthers targeted Cam Erving first during the legal tampering period, the Panthers got some good depth with the former 2015 first-round pick on a 2 year deal. Erving certainly hasn't lived up to his billing, but has provided the Chiefs and Cowboys a solid option as a swing tackle in recent years. All things considered, the Panthers could've done better with the money they have, but I like that Rhule is focusing on fixing the offensive line for the 2021 starting quarterback.
Grade: C-
Panthers sign OL Pat Elflein to 3 years $13 million deal
Another shocking move by the Panther's front office to bring in a player like Pat Elflein early on in the process. Ever since receiving All-Rookie honors his rookie year, Elflein has declined in stints with Minnesota and New York. It could be due to his position change to guard in his second year, as he was drafted as a center. If Pat Meyer can take on this reclamation project as a potential successor to Matt Paradis (1 year left), this would be a shrewd move. The money is what puts a damper on his deal, in my opinion.
Grade: C+
Panthers sign LB Denzel Perryman to 2-year deal
When on the field, Perryman is a menace in the opposing backfield. That is, when he's on the field. Perryman has suffered multiple injuries since being selected by Los Angeles in the 2nd round of the 2015 draft. With recent reports saying he received $6 million over 2 years, Fitterer got himself a bargain in the free agency market. The LA linebacker seems happy to be on the east coast.
Grade: B+
Panthers sign EDGE Haason Reddick to 1-year $8 million deal
The former Temple guy returns to where it all started with Coach Rhule on a cheap prove-it deal for one of the NFL's leading pass rushers last season. Reports say that Reddick was offered significantly more money to go elsewhere but chose to go for feel and fit on their defense. Brian Burns and Haason Reddick off the edge creates a scary duo for Phil Snow to utilize in his sophomore season as an NFL defensive coordinator, and I'm here for it.
Grade: A
Panthers sign DL Morgan Fox to 2 years $8 million deal
This is a very underrated move by the front office, whose general manager got to see many NFC West players up close and personal in Seattle. Fox had a career year last season, racking up 6 sacks and 8 TFL. He can play all along the defensive line, whether that be off the edge or as an interior rusher. Fox should take increased snaps in the role of Efe Obada, who departed in free agency to the Buffalo Bills. Fitterer is earning my trust quickly in his short tenure; it's all up to the draft now.
Grade: B+
Panthers sign WR David Moore to 2 years $4 million deal
David Moore was signed to be the dynamic third receiver on the team behind DJ and Robby. While he won't be running in between the tackles like former player Curtis Samuel, Moore should provide more speed and agility to the receiving core. His catch rate was at an all-time high in 2020 with 74.5% of balls thrown his way being caught. The Seattle connection played a big role, as well as the opportunity to play for such a great organization. The player and the deal we got, really gives Panthers fans a glimpse of Fitterer's reign.
Grade: A-
Panthers sign RB/WR/KR Darius Clark to 1-year deal
Darius Clark is an interesting case. Standing 6'2 210, Clark played at running back, receiver, and returner for Newberry. Signing with HUB, he was able to showcase his talents to NFL execs as an undrafted free agent. Pharoh Cooper hasn't been re-signed as of now, so Clark could be working with special teams and doing a little bit of everything for the offense. Brady got himself a new shiny weapon to play with next year.
Grade: C
Panthers sign CB Rashaan Melvin to 1-year deal
Rashaan Melvin has never been an elite corner but was above average during his stay in Indy, recording 20 pass deflections, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles over 2 years. Melvin fits Snow's defense at 6'2 with long arms to disrupt passes. He is likely a short-term fix at the position due to his age and relative talent but will be a veteran presence in the secondary that is lacking since the Tre Boston cut.
Grade: C
Panthers sign TE Dan Arnold to 2-year deal
This is a Joe Brady connection, with Arnold playing for the Saints in 2018 before being let go. He'll be a great red-zone threat at 6'6, something the Panthers have been sorely lacking since big-bodied receivers like Devin Funchess and (hate to say it) Kelvin Benjamin. Panthers will likely still need to address tight end through the draft but I appreciate Fitterer filling each of our needs so we're not desperate when it comes around.
Grade: C+
Panthers re-sign OL John Miller to 1-year deal
Pat Meyer will see a familiar face when he walks through the door next year with John Miller's return. This is a good deal in that Miller was probably the best offensive lineman other than Taylor Moton, possibly Matt Paradis. Though I expect Pat Elflein and John Miller to start, I feel the team will still likely address the line through the draft. Rhule said he likes to see stability on the roster, and this is one example.
Grade: B
Panthers sign LB Frankie Luvu to 1-year deal
This was strictly a move to fill out the linebacker room and possibly add another pass rusher to the roster. Luvu hasn't done much in his career with the Jets but provides some youth and speed to the team. I can't fault the team for depth signings.
Grade: C
*I plan to update this if the Panthers sign any more players.*
What are your thoughts on Fitterer's first free agency? Like it or not? Comment down below.