Bolstering the defense is an absolute priority for the Carolina Panthers this offseason. There is growing speculation that Dan Morgan will take an aggressive approach in targeting high-profile free agents to make an immediate impact.
No one within the organization wants to endure another defensive disaster like in 2024. Ejiro Evero’s unit struggled immensely from start to finish, allowing the most points in a single season in NFL history and surrendering over 3,000 rushing yards.
This was partly due to Morgan’s failure to adequately equip his defensive coordinator with the necessary personnel to successfully implement a 3-4 scheme.
The Panthers have needs across the board. Jaycee Horn and Derrick Brown serve as the cornerstones, while players like Jadeveon Clowney, Josey Jewell, Trevin Wallace, and D.J. Wonnum should play significant roles.
Beyond that, everything remains uncertain. Morgan must approach the defense with the same urgency he showed in revamping the offense during his initial roster moves.
As expected, rumors are circulating. Milton Williams is frequently mentioned as a potential target, and the Panthers may also look to another of his Philadelphia Eagles teammates to strengthen their pass rush.
Carolina Panthers tipped to lose out in Josh Sweat free-agent sweepstakes
David Newton of ESPN speculated that the Panthers might make a compelling offer for Josh Sweat when the legal tampering period begins. However, Morgan won’t be the only one pursuing the former fourth-round pick, as the New England Patriots, Arizona Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and Washington Commanders are also expected to be in the mix.
“The Panthers want to rebuild the defensive front the way they did with the offensive line last season. Adding an edge rusher such as [Josh] Sweat — who has 33 sacks over the past three seasons — makes sense. Nobody on the Panthers had more than 5.5 sacks last season on a unit that ranked 29th in total sacks with 32. Sweat is headed into his prime, and he played in a 3-4 scheme — similar to what the Panthers used last season — under Vic Fangio in Philly.”
After evaluating potential offers and destinations, ESPN insider Dan Graziano predicted that the Panthers would likely lose out to the Commanders in the race for Josh Sweat. While it’s all speculation at this point, Morgan must be prepared for intense competition if Carolina decides to make a serious push for the Florida State product.
One thing is certain—Sweat is set to cash in. Fresh off an outstanding season with the Eagles, he played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl victory. His performance against the Kansas City Chiefs on the grandest stage only strengthened his bargaining power.
The exact price tag for Sweat in free agency remains uncertain, but a deal in the $20 million per year range isn’t out of the question, especially if a bidding war ensues. With only $29.86 million in available cap space, the Panthers must be strategic in structuring contracts. However, after last season’s defensive struggles, half-measures won’t cut it.
Free agency will be a critical period for Carolina. Whether it’s Sweat or another impact player, failing to make major defensive upgrades would be a serious misstep for the franchise.
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