With the New England Patriots set to take on the Carolina Panthers this Sunday, there are several Panthers players who would look good in a New England uniform. The Panthers defense has suffered through ups-and-downs this year. However, one player who has been consistent for them is linebacker Haason Reddick.
He is my pick for this week’s Gimmie Him, a series where the Patriots get to steal a player of our choosing from the opposing team.
Reddick started off hot to begin the season, recording a sack in the half in each of his first three games. His highest output came when he recorded two sacks against Philadelphia on October 10. After not recording a sack in the following two games, he recorded one on Sunday as the Panthers rolled defeated the Atlanta Falcons.
The Patriots certainly have pass-rushing ability at the linebacker position. Matthew Judon leads the team with nine sacks on the year. This would be more about giving New England additional depth at the position. A combination of Judon and Reddick would be scary to think about. The combination of those two would certainly give offensive lines quite a bit of trouble.
The New England offense seems to be finding their groove. Solidifying the defense would be the smartest play here. With the secondary struggling at times this year, adding another pass rusher like Reddick would take pressure off the secondary. This would make life a bit easier for the cornerbacks.
Reddick is coming off a year in 2020 that saw him record 12.5 sacks. That is the highest amount in his career to this point. He does not appear to be slowing down this season. His 7.5 sacks this year ties him for fifth in the NFL.
This is certainly fun to think about. Although Riddick will undoubtedly be a key part of the Carolina Panthers defense for the future, he would have a home in New England.
