The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms on a one-year deal with defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. It appears he has already circled the dates for when he squares off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

After much speculation, McCoy parted ways with Tampa Bay this offseason to join their NFC South rival in Carolina. According to Allan Bell of 247 Sports, he is looking forward to playing against his former team:

“It will be fun. Will be different. Will have a blast with it, truly believe this is the best division in football. It will come when it comes.”

McCoy's comments should hardly come as any surprise. He spent nine seasons building an illustrious career in Tampa Bay. The Bucs selected McCoy with the third overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. He has since been named a six-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro and is now looking to continue his success in Carolina.

There was certainly no shortage of interest in McCoy's services this offseason. The Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens were among the notable teams that were looking to bring him on and were even able to visit with him. Despite their optimism, the veteran was adamant about making his rounds in fre agency. Fortunately, it appears to have finally paid off.

Although McCoy's production has dipped in recent years, he is still widely considered one of the best interior linemen in the NFL. He has enjoyed plenty of individual success throughout his career.

It is safe to say he feels the Panthers give him the best chance at competing for a championship in 2019.