The Carolina Panthers recognize that improving their defense is crucial for a successful turnaround in 2025. General manager Dan Morgan has been vocal about the need for defensive reinforcements following a disastrous 2024 season. In an interview with play-by-play announcer Anish Shroff at the NFL Scouting Combine, Morgan outlined the team’s defensive priorities.
He emphasized the importance of upgrading the interior defensive line, outside linebacker, safety, and cornerback positions. While acknowledging that rebuilding the defense will take time, Morgan expressed confidence that free agency and the draft would help address the team’s weaknesses.
Panthers Must Bolster Defensive Line to Fix Run Defense and Pass Rush
One of Carolina’s biggest issues in 2024 was its inability to stop the run. The Panthers allowed a staggering 3,057 rushing yards last season, the third-highest total in NFL history, averaging 179.8 yards surrendered per game. This lack of run-stopping ability made it nearly impossible for the team to compete.
The absence of Pro Bowl defensive tackle Derrick Brown, who was injured in the season opener, only worsened the situation. However, even with Brown’s return in 2025, the team still needs to bolster the interior defensive line with additional size and strength to prevent opposing offenses from dominating on the ground.
Panthers Prioritize Defensive Overhaul to Fix Run Defense, Pass Rush, and Secondary in 2025In addition to struggling against the run, Carolina’s pass rush was virtually nonexistent in 2024. The team finished last in the league in quarterback pressure rate (25.5 percent) and total pressures (152). With Jadeveon Clowney as their top pass rusher, the Panthers lacked a consistent edge presence to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
To improve their defensive front, the Panthers must acquire more playmakers at outside linebacker and defensive end, either through free agency or the draft. Generating more pressure on quarterbacks will be crucial for the team’s defensive success in 2025.
Panthers Must Strengthen Secondary to Compete Against Top Passing Attacks in 2025
The Panthers also face significant concerns in their secondary, particularly at the safety position. Currently, the only safety under contract is former undrafted free agent Demani Richardson, leaving the team with a glaring hole in the back end of the defense.
Additionally, Morgan acknowledged the need for another cornerback to strengthen pass coverage. Without reinforcements in the secondary, Carolina’s defense could continue to struggle against the league’s top passing attacks. Upgrading this unit will be a key priority for the front office in the offseason.
While much of the Panthers’ focus in recent years has been on improving the offense around quarterback Bryce Young, the team must now shift its attention to the defense. The glaring weaknesses in run defense, pass rush, and the secondary have held Carolina back, making defensive upgrades essential for success in 2025.
If Morgan and the Panthers can effectively address these issues through strategic acquisitions, the team could take a major step forward in its rebuilding process. However, without significant defensive improvements, the Panthers may continue to struggle despite any offensive progress.
