According to a tweet from NFL insider Adam Schefter, Carolina Panthers free agent defensive tackle Star Lotulelei is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Buffalo Bills. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
Former Panthers’ DT Star Lotulelei intends to sign a 5-year deal with the Buffalo Bills when free agency opens, source tells ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2018
Lotulelei was Carolina’s first round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft (No. 14 overall) and was former general manager Dave Gettleman’s first pick in charge. Lotulelei racked up 141 tackles and 11.5 sacks in his five years in Carolina.
What this means for the Panthers
Vernon Butler will be relied on to fill the void left by Lotulelei’s departure. Carolina could also be in the market for a veteran replacement, though they may not want to spend too much money on the position.
The Panthers have now lost their two premier free agents this offseason, as expected. On the bright side, they should get two third round compensatory picks as a result, provided they don’t add too many players to their roster during free agency.
What do you think about this move, Panthers fans? Should Carolina have kept Lotulelei, or are you happy they didn’t enter a bidding war? Share your thoughts with us!