The Panthers are bringing in another defender familiar with head coach Matt Rhule. The team announced they have signed defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis to a one-year deal. Sirius XM’s Adam Caplan adds (on Twitter) that the contract is worth $5.9MM. 
The 28-year-old was released by the Commanders earlier this week. The move created just under $7MM in cap space, but meant he would be changing teams for the first time in his career. Given his production, it doesn’t come as a surprise that he was able to find a new home so quickly.
The former fifth round pick established himself as a significant interior pass rush presence during his six seasons in the nation’s capital. His best year came in 2019, when he totalled 64 tackles and 8.5 sacks. He was limited to just three contests the following year, but came back healthy in 2021. For his career, he has posted 24.5 sacks.
Ioannidis will replace DaQuan Jones, who joined the Bills at the start of free agency. As a four-year player at Temple, he marks another signing by the Panthers who has experience playing under Rhule. Alongside Derrick Brown, he will likely form a disruptive duo at the heart of their defense.
Would have loved him on the Steelers but that’s a bit too much for how he’d be used. Solid player, best of luck
This is a big mistake by the ex-Redskins. Matt Ionnadis was very productive and very good value. Not easily replaced. Hope there’s no injuries in DC next year.