The Carolina Panthers move forward by adding five more years to Kawann Shorts’ career as a Panther. “KK has been very important to what we’ve been able to accomplish on defense,” general manager Dave Gettleman said.
“In 2013, when we drafted KK, I thought he was the best pass-rushing defensive tackle in the draft, and he’s been able to develop into one of the top young defensive tackles in the NFL. Off the field, KK is a top-notch young man and great representative of our team. I’m absolutely thrilled that we were able to get this deal done.”
In a two- year span, Short has annihilated quarterbacks and made it hard for defenders to stop him. He has 17 sacks in his career and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month twice in 2015.
Despite the lackadaisical effort that the Panthers put in last year, their defensive front was something that still created turnovers and put pressure on other opponents’ QBs.
“KK consistently affects the quarterback and is strong against the run,” head coach Ron Rivera said. “The mismatches he creates for us on defense force opponents to be aware of him at all times and give us an edge along the defensive line. He’s a great player, but also a quality young man who has the respect of his teammates in the locker room. He’s everything we’re looking for in a Panther.”
Short earned the five- year deal by being consistent. He has not missed any days since he was drafted, has started every game, and was a playmaker. He has recorded 176 tackles, 22 sacks, with 88 quarterback pressures, six forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries.
