Panthers Sign Deion Jones
The Panthers are adding another chess piece to their defense. A defense that might be one of the most underrated units in the NFL. Linebacker Deion Jones is signing a free agent contract with Carolina. It’s just a one year deal so no risk here for the Panthers.
The signing was first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter:
Former Falcons’ LB Deion Jones, who spent seven seasons in Atlanta, is returning to the NFC on a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 31, 2023
The Panthers get some much needed linebacker depth behind Shaq Thompson, Frankie Luvu, and Kamu Grugier-Hill. Jones, 28, is somehow past his prime but also should still be in his prime given the age. He just fell off a cliff out of nowhere. In 2021, Jones had 137 combined tackles which was the second best mark of his career. Atlanta cut bait and Jones underperformed with Cleveland.
It’s hard to know who you’re getting but Jones has always been a guy that relies on speed. He’s an undersized player with plus range. Let’s just hope that range hasn’t disappeared for whatever reason. Jones got off to such a hot start after being drafted in the second round in 2016 out of LSU. Jones finished third in defensive rookie of the year voting and made the Pro Bowl in 2017.
Don’t sleep on Carolina! They’re my pick to win the NFC South and this defense is a big reason why. Hopefully, Jones provides a boost because they have some really talented players on that side of the ball. Derrick Brown, Jeremy Chinn, Jaycee Horn, and Brian Burns should have that unit humming in 2023-24. If Bryce Young is ready to go, this team has a shot.
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