Kawann Short

Schefter reports Short is "in discussions with a handful of teams." Headed into his age-32 campaign, Short was cut by the only team he has ever known, Carolina, in February. Known for his leadership qualities, Short could probably still provide some decent early-down snaps along the interior. 

The move, which saves Carolina $14.5 million against the cap in 2021, was widely expected after Short missed most of the past two seasons with shoulder injuries. Short, 32, should have a handful of suitors who will look to sign the veteran to a contract loaded with incentives. He signed a five-year, $80 million contract with Carolina after the 2016 season, when he was graded by Pro Football Focus as the No. 3 DT in the NFL. 

Short's shoulder surgery is to the opposite shoulder he needed season-ending surgery on last year. The 31-year-old missed two games earlier in the year with a foot issue. Short had been playing heavy snaps inside for Carolina. Even at his advanced age, this is a big loss to an already-undermanned defense. Short has one year left on his contract at $12.5 million for 2021.

Both Short and Daley are considered starters. Even defensive lineman Gross-Matos could be a significant absence for the Panthers, as the team's already weak run defense could be shredded by Ronald Jones and Leonard Fournette without anchor DL Kawann Short.