Top Free Agency Targets for the Carolina Panthers in 2025
As the Carolina Panthers look to build a more competitive roster for the 2025 season, both offensive and defensive improvements will be crucial. While Bryce Young and the offense showed promising growth in 2024, the defense struggled significantly, finishing the season ranked last in the NFL. With 21 players set to hit free agency, the Panthers have critical decisions to make in terms of who to re-sign and which positions to target in the market. This article explores the key areas of improvement for the Panthers, potential free-agent targets, and some of the top names they could pursue to strengthen their roster heading into next season.
Offensive Improvements
In Bryce Young’s second season, the Panthers added key weapons, including first-round pick Xavier Legette, undrafted rookie free agent Jalen Coker, and briefly Diontae Johnson. These moves helped boost the offense, which averaged 20.1 points, 110.5 rushing yards, and 200.6 passing yards per game in 2024. This marked a significant improvement from 2023, when the offense struggled, averaging just 13.9 points, 104.1 rushing yards, and 161.2 passing yards. Free agency will be crucial in continuing this upward trend and providing more support for Young.
Defensive Struggles
The Panthers’ defense had a tough season in 2024, ranking last in the NFL. They allowed 534 points, averaging 31.4 per game, and gave up 40 or more points in three games. The defense surrendered 61 touchdowns, up from 2.9 per game in 2023 to 3.6 per game this season. With these struggles, the Panthers face a significant challenge in rebuilding their defense, and free agency will be essential to address these issues.
Potential Free Agent Target: Khalil Mack
One potential target is edge rusher Khalil Mack, ranked seventh by ESPN and one of the top free agents available. Despite his age, Mack could provide a short-term boost to the Panthers’ defense during their rebuild. While the Chargers are expected to try re-signing him, the Panthers, along with teams like Atlanta, will pursue him. With limited cap space, the Panthers would need to get creative, but a one-year deal makes sense. However, adding Mack would join an aging edge rusher group, including Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum, all potentially leaving after the 2025 season.
Panthers' Key Free Agency Decisions for 2025
The Panthers have 21 players set to hit free agency, making this offseason pivotal. While their eighth overall draft pick offers a chance to add talent, free agency will be equally important in addressing immediate needs. Key free agents include veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, offensive linemen Austin Corbett and Brady Christensen, tight end Tommy Tremble, wide receiver David Moore, linebacker Shaq Thompson, cornerback Mike Jackson, safety Xavier Woods, and safety Sam Franklin. The Panthers will need to carefully assess which players to re-sign and which should be replaced to strengthen both sides of the ball.
Top Free Agents on the Market
The Panthers could target several key free agents, particularly at wide receiver. Tee Higgins, ranked first, has battled injuries but remained highly productive when healthy in 2024, making him a top target in 2025. Chris Godwin ranked fourth, has been reliable throughout his career, earning an 85.7 PFF grade in 2024 before suffering a season-ending ankle injury. Marquise Brown, ranked 36th, missed most of the regular season with a shoulder injury but has been consistent when on the field, with his playoff performance likely impacting his free-agent value. Darius Slayton, ranked 38th, has been limited by inconsistent quarterback play but remains a deep threat, with four seasons of over 700 receiving yards. His explosiveness and leadership, as the Giants' Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, would make him a strong asset to any team.
Charting the Path Forward: Key Decisions for the Panthers' 2025 Season
As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Carolina Panthers are at a critical juncture in their rebuild. With substantial improvements needed on both sides of the ball, they must leverage free agency to strengthen their roster and set themselves up for future success. The offense, led by Bryce Young, has shown progress, but additional talent is needed to continue its upward trajectory. Meanwhile, the defense, ranked last in the league, will require significant upgrades to become competitive. By carefully navigating free agency, the Panthers have the opportunity to make impactful moves, whether it's securing key veterans like Khalil Mack or targeting top-tier playmakers at wide receiver. Ultimately, the decisions made this offseason will shape the Panthers' chances of returning to playoff contention in 2025 and beyond.
