The Carolina Panthers suffered a huge loss with the departure of defensive tackle Star Lotulelei. Fortunately, they have quickly managed to find his replacement.
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Dontari Poe had garnered plenty of interest going into the offseason once again for the second straight year. According to Kimberley A. Martin of the Washington Post, the Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with Poe while the Washington Redskins were reportedly also in pursuit of his services:
Source: Dontari Poe is going to the #Panthers … Redskins had interest
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport confirmed that the Panthers are signing Poe to a three-year deal worth up to $10 million per year.
The Panthers are signing former Falcons DT Dontari Poe to a 3-year deal, source said, worth between $9M and $10M per year. Big signing for Carolina.
The Panthers addressed a heavy need early on in the offseason with the departure of Lotulelei. However, Poe certainly makes for a viable replacement amidst the recent overhaul in both player and coaching personnel within the team.
The two-time Pro Bowler has made his bones as one of the premier run-stuffers in the league. Unfortunately, his production has taken a bit of a hit in recent years. The move to Atlanta hardly made any difference for Poe as he registered 39 tackles and 2.5 sacks in the 2017 NFL season. Furthermore, concerns about his weight have also been an issue in the past.
That said, the former 11th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft is still in his prime at just 27 years old. Perhaps another fresh start in Carolina could help him get back to his former Pro Bowl-caliber self.
Follow Us
Subscribe