Sources: Panthers to release center Bradley Bozeman

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Center will be a top priority for the Carolina Panthers when they enter free agency this week.

The team plans to release starting center Bradley Bozeman when the NFL's new year begins Wednesday, multiple league sources told ESPN on Sunday.

The release is performance-based and not a cap-saving move. Bozeman is due a $1.5 million signing bonus on March 16. His release will save only $360,000 and create $7,280,000 in dead money.

Bozeman will be released because of his ineffectiveness in pass protection, which led to rookie quarterback Bryce Young being sacked 62 times, second only to Sam Howell of the Washington Commanders in 2023.

Bozeman allowed eight sacks, first among centers, according to Pro Football Focus.

New coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan recently said at the NFL combine that shoring up the interior offensive line was a priority, with the plan to leave Ickey Ekwonu at left tackle.

Among centers that could be targeted are Coleman Shelton of the Los Angeles Rams and Mitch Morse, recently released by the Buffalo Bills.

Bozeman wasCarolina's 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award nominee.