The Carolina Panthers have undergone a slew of changes this offseason, and they've added a new member to their defense. With a new regime in place, the Panthers have agreed to terms with Eli Apple, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
The #Panthers agreed to terms with former #Saints CB Eli Apple, who appeared to be headed to the #Raiders in free agency only to have it fall apart.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 28, 2020
Near the beginning of free agency, Apple actually signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. However, it's evident that either Las Vegas or Apple has since had second thoughts on the deal they agreed upon earlier this offseason.
Nevertheless, Apple is now headed to Carolina to join a new-look defense under new head coach Matt Rhule. While they've added Teddy Bridgewater and Robby Anderson on offense, the Panthers lost James Bradberry in free agency. Besides Bradberry, it remains to be seen if Carolina retains Ross Cockrell.
As for Apple, he is going to be playing for his third team since being drafted by the New York Giants with the No. 10 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. Back in 2018, the Ohio State product was traded to the New Orleans Saints.
Just last season, Apple started in 15 games for the Saints, accumulating 58 tackles and four pass breakups. At the same time, he was able to contribute a forced fumble as well.
Prior to signing Apple, the Panthers' starting cornerbacks would have been Donte Jackson, Corn Elder, and rookie Troy Pride Jr. Therefore, it remains to be seen what Apple's role will be upon signing with Carolina. At the least, the former first-round pick has found a new place to call home for the 2020 NFL season.
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