The Carolina Panthers are determined to address their defensive struggles this offseason. According to one NFL insider, general manager Dan Morgan is expected to pursue high-profile targets when free agency begins.
During his first recruitment period, Morgan prioritized assessing quarterback Bryce Young, investing heavily in the interior offensive line and using three of his first four draft picks on skill positions. While this approach bolstered the offense, it came at a cost to Ejiro Evero’s defense.
Lacking both depth and starting-caliber talent, Carolina’s defense struggled immensely, allowing the most points in a single season in NFL history and surrendering over 3,000 rushing yards—an average of 179.8 per game. It was a disastrous campaign with few bright spots.
Morgan acknowledged that he didn’t do enough to support Evero and is committed to rectifying the situation. His approach will be aggressive, ensuring a more balanced roster.
Panthers Expected to Make a Splash in Free Agency
This sentiment was mirrored by ESPN’s Dan Graziano during his conversations at the NFL Scouting Combine. The respected insider predicted that the Panthers would go all out with several high-profile free agents, even suggesting specific names who could come in and make an immediate impact.
“Expect the Panthers to pursue big-name players in free agency. I believe Carolina is interested in the top safeties — Jevon Holland, Camryn Bynum, etc. — and may be prepared to spend heavily to pull defensive lineman Milton Williams away from the Super Bowl champion Eagles. The Panthers will also aim to recruit edge rushers, with Chase Young being one of the more intriguing prospects.
Dan Graziano
Money is tight at the moment, but the Panthers still have opportunities to restructure contracts and create more cap space to attract the right talent.
Prioritizing the defense would be a wise move, as there are weaknesses across the board. Outside of Jaycee Horn, Derrick Brown, Josey Jewell, and possibly A’Shawn Robinson, no one should feel completely secure. Carolina’s decision to move on from linebacker Shaq Thompson signals that major changes are on the horizon.
With nine picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, including the No. 8 overall selection, the Panthers have ample opportunities to address defensive needs. General manager Dan Morgan values flexibility during the draft, and the best way to achieve that is by addressing key holes in free agency.
Carolina faced a similar financial situation last offseason, yet Morgan still managed to land two key signings—Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis—to anchor the offensive line. While maneuvering the cap will be challenging, it’s far from impossible.
Fortunately, the Panthers are in a more stable position now. They showed improvement in the latter half of 2024 and have established a much-needed foundation after a period of dysfunction. That stability is an appealing factor, particularly for a small-market team.
The coming weeks will be pivotal, as Morgan’s decisions will shape the franchise’s future.