Top Remaining OLB Free Agents the Panthers Should Target

Some names Carolina fans should keep an eye on.

Leonard Floyd was one free agent that was constantly linked to the Carolina Panthers due to their need for a pass rusher and his history with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. 

Whether or not there was ever any interest on either side is unknown but with Floyd signing with the Buffalo Bills earlier this week, Carolina's search for pass rush help will continue into the middle part of June.

With Floyd off the board, who are the best available options?

Jadeveon Clowney

Clowney is a much better fit as a 4-3 end than he is as a 3-4 outside backer but he's done both and has played at a high level at both positions. The Rock Hill, South Carolina native makes the most sense in terms of the free agent market. He brings experience, production, and leadership - three things Evero is searching for. During his 52 career games as an outside linebacker, Clowney totaled 165 tackles, 49 tackles for loss, 56 QB hits, and 23 sacks.

Robert Quinn

Another Carolina guy through and through. Quinn grew up in Ladson, South Carolina, and played his college ball at North Carolina where he turned into one of the best pass rushers in the country. At times throughout his NFL career, he was in the conversations as one of the top pass rushers in the league. He's a little on the older side at 33 but he still has the ability to play at a high level. Quinn struggled to find a role with the Eagles this past season after being acquired via trade but in 2021 he posted 22 QB hits and 18.5 sacks.

Justin Houston

Again, Houston is an older guy at the age of 34, but with how thin the market is, he's one of the top options. During his twelve years in the league, he's notched 111.5 sacks and 182 QB hits. Frank Reich identified him in free agency once before bringing him to Indy for two years, so maybe a reunion in Carolina is in store. Oddly enough, the only two years Houston played defensive end instead of outside linebacker were those two years with the Colts. Here though, he would play his natural OLB position. 

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