Gerald McCoy has been pursued by multiple teams since he was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the veteran defensive tackle has finally made a decision.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that McCoy has agreed to a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers that is worth around $8.5 million.
Panthers are giving former Buccaneers’ DT Gerald McCoy a one-year deal, per sources. It is likely to be worth about $8.5 million, per sources. https://t.co/LIE2DOC8wi
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 3, 2019
McCoy was also negotiating with the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens, but ultimately he decided to remain in the same division where he has spent his entire nine-year NFL career. Playing for the Panthers will give him a chance to go up against his former team twice next season, which Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports was a factor.
One thing that became clear in this process: Gerald McCoy wanted to stay in the South, where it’s familiar, rather than Baltimore or Cleveland. Loved both teams, wasn’t sure about both cities. That and the chance to play against his former team twice…
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 3, 2019
McCoy took his first visit with the Browns and was being actively recruited by Baker Mayfield, but it wasn’t enough. He should give the Panthers a nice boost on their defensive front.
