Greg Hardy’s Case Dropped

www.complex.com

www.complex.com

Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy has been part of an ongoing trial for domestic violence charges filed in 2014. Hardy was found guilty for assaulting his ex girlfriend Nicole Holder. Hardy was set to appeal this verdict starting Monday, however the accuser did not show up. Some believe that Hardy and Holder reached an agreement so that Holder wouldn’t testify. Whatever the reason, Hardy’s charges have been dropped and he is now once again a free man. Hardy has been on the NFL’s exempt list since week three of the 2014 NFL season, and he is set to be an unrestricted free agent. It has been reported that the Panthers aren’t all that interested in bringing him back to Carolina. However, being a pro bowler in 2013, he is likely to fall into the laps of some team. In 2011 he totaled 61 tackles in 11 sacks, while in his pro bowl year he had 15 sacks and 59 tackles. Sure, whatever team scoops him up will also be bringing along a media storm, but talent like that is too hard to pass up.

 

Look for a team like the Atlanta Falcons or Oakland Raiders, who have lots of cap room and a need for a pass rusher, to come in and sign Hardy. Considering his past accomplishments, he will surely be demanding big money, so cap space is a must. He is the type of player that rarely hits the market, and whoever lands him will be signing a difference maker on defense. Although it may seem weird for the Panthers to not resign such a young, amazing player it makes sense when looking at their situation. Their defense performed admirably this season, and they could use the money that they could be spending on Hardy to revamp their porous offensive line, as well as their depleted receiving corps. This will surely be a big story to follow once free agency begins, so make sure to keep checking back for updates around that time.