Panthers Strengthen Defense and Secure Key Players with Major Offseason Moves

General Manager Dan Morgan and Head Coach Dave Canales have made it clear that their primary focus this offseason will be strengthening the defense, similar to how they focused on the offensive line last year. Before they hit the NFL draft, they will focus on improving significantly through the NFL's Free Agency period. After significantly improving the protection for quarterback Bryce Young, the Panthers are now turning their attention to building a dominant defensive unit. Both Morgan and Canales understand the importance of creating a balanced team and have prioritized defensive upgrades to ensure long-term success. With a series of key signings and player extensions already in place, the Panthers are laying the foundation for a strong defensive future. These strategic moves signal the team’s commitment to improving on both sides of the ball as they continue their rebuild.

Panthers Secure Jaycee Horn with Four-Year Extension

The Carolina Panthers made a bold statement this offseason by extending cornerback Jaycee Horn for four more years, ensuring his stay through the 2029 season. Horn, who was already under contract for 2024 after the Panthers picked up his fifth-year option, is officially the key part of their defense going forward. His breakout 2024 season earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, playing over 1,000 snaps across 15 games. Although Horn was not a fan favorite in voting, his elite skill set and consistency were recognized by his peers and coaches. With his long-term future secured, Horn is positioned to continue his development and help lead the Panthers' defense in the years to come.

Tre’von Moehrig Joins Panthers with Three-Year, $51 Million Deal

In a significant move for the secondary, the Panthers signed safety Tre'von Moehrig to a three-year, $51 million contract. Moehrig, who spent four seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, brings valuable experience, having started 64 games and recording six interceptions. The 25-year-old safety is a dynamic presence in the backfield and will provide immediate support to Carolina's defensive unit. His ability to make plays, including two interceptions last season, solidifies the Panthers' plans to strengthen their defense. Moehrig’s arrival is a key part of the Panthers’ ongoing rebuild, offering leadership and playmaking ability to the secondary.

Tershawn Wharton Signs Three-Year, $54 Million Deal

The Panthers strengthened their defensive line with the signing of defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton to a three-year, $54 million contract. Wharton, who is coming off a breakout season with seven sacks, is expected to play as a defensive end in the Panthers' three-four defensive scheme. At just 26 years old, he offers the team a young and talented player to complement Pro Bowler Derrick Brown. Wharton’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays will provide a significant boost to Carolina’s front seven. The addition of Wharton solidifies the Panthers’ defensive line and adds another building block to their long-term defensive plans.

Pat Jones II Adds Pass-Rush Threat with Two-Year, $20 Million Contract

The Panthers bolstered their pass rush by signing linebacker Pat Jones II to a two-year, $20 million deal. Jones, a former Minnesota Vikings player, impressed with seven sacks in the 2024 season, making him a valuable addition to Carolina’s defense. His explosive first step and ability to get after the quarterback will be key in strengthening the Panthers' edge rush. Jones adds depth and versatility to the linebacker group, providing the team with more options in situational pass-rushing roles. At 26 years old, Jones is entering his prime and could emerge as a key piece of the Panthers’ defense moving forward.

Mike Jackson Re-Signed for Two Years, $14.5 Million

Cornerback Mike Jackson was re-signed by the Panthers to a two-year deal worth $14.5 million, further solidifying their secondary. Jackson, who led the team in pass deflections, which was 17 in 2024, played an essential role as one of the top cornerbacks in Carolina’s defense. With 1,205 defensive snaps last season, the second-most in the league, Jackson demonstrated his durability and consistency. As the Panthers’ defense undergoes significant changes, Jackson’s re-signing brings stability to the cornerback position alongside Jaycee Horn. This move ensures continuity in the secondary and allows the team to focus on further enhancing other areas of the defense.

Bobby Brown III Joins Panthers on Three-Year, $21 Million Deal

Defensive tackle Bobby Brown III was added to the Panthers' roster on a three-year, $21 million contract, giving the team a stout presence in the middle of their defense. Brown, who played the past two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, will be a key fit in Carolina’s three-four defensive scheme as a nose tackle. At six-foot-four and 328 pounds, Brown is a massive presence who can clog up running lanes and help improve the team’s struggling run defense. The Panthers ranked last in the NFL in run defense in 2024, and Brown’s size and ability to stop the run will be crucial in addressing that weakness. Brown, being 24 years of age and experienced as a starter in 29 games, makes him a valuable addition to Carolina's defensive front.

Tommy Tremble Re-Signed to Two-Year, $10.5 Million Contract

The Panthers re-signed tight end Tommy Tremble to a two-year, $10.5 million contract, securing continuity at the position. Tremble’s leadership and experience will be instrumental in mentoring 2024 fourth-round pick Ja'Tavion Sanders as he transitions into the NFL. While Tremble’s return doesn’t rule out the possibility of drafting another tight end, it alleviates the pressure to do so immediately. Over his career, Tremble has been a reliable contributor in both the passing and blocking game, providing a balanced skill set for the Panthers' offense. His re-signing ensures depth at tight end and allows the team to focus on other areas in their roster-building efforts.

Austin Corbett Re-Signed for One-Year Deal

The Panthers made a key move on the offensive side by re-signing center Austin Corbett to a one-year deal. Corbett’s return helps maintain the continuity of the starting offensive line, which significantly improved the protection for quarterback Bryce Young in 2024. The offensive line reduced Young’s sack total from 62 in 2023 to just 29 last season, and Corbett played an essential role in that improvement. With Corbett’s re-signing, the Panthers continue to prioritize stability in the trenches, ensuring the protection of their young quarterback. Additionally, the team also retained restricted free agent Cade Mays, who started eight games after Corbett’s season-ending injury, further strengthening their offensive line depth.