2017 NFL Power Rankings: Where Do Los Angeles Rams Stand After Free Agency Signings?

22. Carolina Panthers

Between Julius Peppers and Captain Munnerlyn, the defense of the Carolina Panthers is going to see a few familiar faces in 2017 thanks to the return of a few former players. After seeing how last season played out for Ron Rivera’s squad, it’s safe to say the Panthers’ defense needs all of the help in the world if they’re going to have any chance of returning to their dominant level from a few years ago.

Peppers returns to Carolina after spending the last seven seasons with the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, and even at 37, the defensive end still seems to have some gas left in the old tank when looking at his numbers from the last few years. During his last three seasons with the Packers, Peppers was able to record 25 sacks, which is amazing for someone at his age.

On the offensive side of the football, Cam Newton most likely wasn’t thrilled over losing Ted Ginn Jr. to the New Orleans Saints, but at least the addition of Charles Johnson will hopefully make up for part of the loss. The wide receiver may not have lived up to the hype over the last three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings since his only two touchdowns came during the 2014 season, but maybe a fresh start is just what Johnson needs with Newton throwing him the football.