After a weeks-long tour across NFL, defensive tackle Gerald McCoy finally made a decision about his next team. McCoy decided to join Carolina Panther, with whom he signed a one year deal.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, McCoy’s contract with Carolina is worth up to $10.25 million and includes $4 million signing bonus.
Panthers announced their newest acquisition via social media.
“It’s great to have Gerald on our side now,” – said Panthers’ general manager Marty Hurney in a statement. “We are very familiar with his skill set after facing him over the years and know that he not only brings a wealth of talent as a player but is also a tremendous person. We are extremely happy to have Gerald as a part of the Panthers organization.”
Gerald McCoy visited several other NFL teams after being released by Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in May and ended up shortlisting his options to Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns. He ended up deciding to join the Panthers as he thought that they are a “true contender.”
“The reason I’m here is because I was quoted as saying I wanted to go to a contender and every ounce of me feels like this team is a true contender,” – McCoy told reporters after inking the deal. “The NFC South champs are the New Orleans Saints, and they’re known to have a great offense, and in order to take them out, you got to have a great defense. The Carolina Panthers have been known to have a great defense, and I just want to add to that, and I truly believe that, with the addition of me and all the pieces that are already here, we got a great shot.”
McCoy will definitely be a big addition for Panther’s defense and is expected to give a new dimension to the team’s pass rush. His NFL career stats include 297 tackles, 53.5 sacks, and 21 pass deflections.
