The Carolina Panthers entered the 2024 offseason with a glaring weakness: the NFL’s worst defense. Determined to fix that, newly promoted general manager Dan Morgan took an aggressive approach during the early days of free agency, pouring nearly $250 million into defensive upgrades. With financial backing from team owner David Tepper, the Panthers added defensive tackles Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III, linebackers Pat Jones II and Christian Rozeboom, and safety Tre’Von Moehrig. They also retained key cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson.
These roster moves provide the Panthers with more flexibility heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, where they hold the eighth overall pick. While their offseason focus has clearly been on defense, the revamped unit now opens the door for the team to consider offensive prospects in the first round. Morgan could opt to select a wide receiver like Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan or Texas’ Matthew Golden, or target Michigan tight end Colston Loveland to fill a long-standing void at that position.
Still, the defensive struggles from last season — allowing a league-high 31.4 points and 179.8 rushing yards per game — cannot be ignored. The team finished 5-12 and missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year. Although the Panthers used their top two draft picks on offensive players the last two years, including quarterback Bryce Young, Morgan may choose to reinforce the defense again this year.
If defense remains the focus, Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker is a strong candidate. Carolina’s pass rush was among the league’s weakest in 2024, with just 32 total sacks — tied for third-fewest in the NFL. Additional help at linebacker and cornerback could also be found through prospects like Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell and Texas’ Jahdae Barron, respectively.
Morgan has hinted at potential draft day trades, particularly on Day 2. With one pick each in the second and third rounds, plus two fourth-round and three fifth-round picks, the Panthers are well-positioned to package assets and move up the board. This maneuverability could allow them to target key players who might not last until their scheduled selections.
At the NFL Combine, Morgan emphasized the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage — a philosophy inspired by teams like the Philadelphia Eagles. To support that vision, the Panthers also invested heavily in the offensive line this offseason, signing guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis while re-signing center Austin Corbett. Despite the improvements, Morgan hasn’t ruled out further bolstering both the offensive and defensive lines through the draft.
While defense remains a priority, there are still needs on offense. Wide receiver and tight end stand out as areas the Panthers could address. However, they appear satisfied with their quarterback situation. Bryce Young is expected to continue developing, and veteran Andy Dalton was re-signed as a reliable backup. Running back is also not a concern, thanks to the free-agent signing of Rico Dowdle and the expected midseason return of Jonathan Brooks from injury.
All signs point to Jalon Walker being a favorite for Carolina. At 6-foot-1 and 243 pounds, his versatility fits the Panthers’ 3-4 defensive scheme and could provide the spark they need on defense.
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