The Carolina Panthers have made a splash in the NFL offseason, signing two of ESPN's top-50 most-impactful free agency moves. The team's general manager, Dan Morgan, has been busy retooling the roster, and his efforts are already paying off.
The Panthers' first big move was signing outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips to a massive four-year, $120 million deal. This addition was ranked No. 14 on ESPN's list, with former NFL safety and writer Matt Bowen noting that Phillips should be a versatile contributor with edge-setting toughness, pass-rush production, and the ability to drop or disguise in coverage. According to ESPN Research, his 12% pressure rate ranks fourth highest among players with at least 1,000 pass rushes over the past four seasons.
Phillips' injury history is a concern, but he played all 17 games in 2025 with the Dolphins and Eagles. The 27-year-old may be ready to hit his peak under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, a disciple of Phillips' previous play-caller from Philadelphia—Vic Fangio.
The Panthers' second big move was inking inside linebacker Devin Lloyd to a three-year, $42 million pact. His addition was ranked 39th on ESPN's list, with Bowen noting that Lloyd can command the middle of the Panthers' defense and brings more upside in coverage as a three-down defender with ball skills and zone awareness. Lloyd showed his playmaking ability last season in Jacksonville, grabbing five interceptions and returning one for a score.
Lloyd is, by far, the best off-ball linebacker the Panthers have brought in since Luke Kuechly's retirement. He's fresh off his first Pro Bowl campaign, where he notched career-highs in interceptions (five) and pressures (21).
With Phillips and Lloyd in the mix, Carolina could end up having a top-10 defense by year's end. But they'll have to stay healthy, which has been a challenge for them so far in training camp.
As the Panthers continue to gear up for the new season, fans are eagerly anticipating the team's potential. Will Phillips and Lloyd be able to stay on the field and make an impact? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Panthers are looking like a force to be reckoned with in the NFC.
Source: Yahoo Sports