Ranking Carolina's Biggest Team Needs Heading Into Free Agency

Analyzing which areas the Panthers need to address this offseason.

The NFL's legal tampering period begins on Monday, which means teams can start negotiating and agreeing to terms on deals with free agents. However, nothing can become official until the start of the new league year on Wednesday.

This is a very important week for Frank Reich and the Panthers as they try to add to what is already young and talented roster. After trading away two firsts and two seconds along with wide receiver DJ Moore to Chicago in exchange for the No. 1 overall pick, the Panthers will need to have a strong week in free agency to help the young quarterback that they plan on taking with that top pick.

So, what are the biggest needs? 

1. Wide Receiver - (X and SL)

I know, duh. Even before the trade that included Moore, the Panthers planned on adding an explosive receiver. Now, one would assume that they will look to add two to the mix. Where does that come? The draft? Free agency? Both? Most likely both, but they certainly need to add an established, veteran presence to the group with just Terrace Marshall Jr., Laviska Shenault Jr., Shi Smith, and Preston Williams as the only receivers on the roster.

2. Bridge QB

It may look crazy having this as the second-highest need on the list, but it's important that Carolina gets a serviceable veteran that can hold down the fort until the rookie is ready to take over the reins of the offense. You don't want a situation where your bridge guy struggles so much early on that it forces Frank Reich's hand to turn to the rookie before he's ready. The Panthers don't need to spend big money on the bridge, they just need to make sure they get the right guy.

3. Pass Rusher

If Carolina can add another threat off the edge to pair with Brian Burns, opposing offense are going to have a hard time figuring out how to block this front seven on a consistent basis. This could be finding an upgrade on the end for Yetur Gross-Matos or adding an outside backer that has a knack for getting after the quarterback. Either way, the Panthers need to go get Burns some help. 

4. Inside Linebacker

The Panthers made a couple of moves with inside backers over the last few days, releasing Damien Wilson and reworking Shaq Thompson's contract to keep him on a two-year deal. Carolina doesn't really have another proven guy that fits this position in the 3-4. Brandon Smith could probably slide inside, but there needs to be a veteran in the starting spot. Particularly someone bigger and with loads of athleticism. 

5. Pass-Catching Tight End

Ian Thomas is one of the best blocking tight ends in the NFL. Tommy Tremble appears to be on a similar path in terms of being utilized primarily as a blocker. Carolina hasn't had a reliable receiving threat at the position since they parted ways with Greg Olsen following the 2019 season. This draft class is extremely deep at tight end, so there should be someone worth taking still on the board in the second and third rounds. If the Panthers opt to go the veteran route, guys like Mike Gesicki and Dalton Schultz will be available.

You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:

Facebook - @PanthersOnSI

Twitter - @AllPanthers_ and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_.