The Carolina Panthers are making aggressive moves to strengthen their defense after last season’s playoff run, Yankee Scores reports
Reports from ESPN and NFL.com confirm the team has added two major pieces in Devin Lloyd and Jaelen Phillips.
Lloyd’s breakout season
Linebacker Devin Lloyd signed a three-year, $45 million contract, with $25 million guaranteed, per ESPN sources. Lloyd recorded five interceptions, 81 tackles, and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2025. His resurgence came under defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile, who used him more as a pass rusher.
Panthers sign LB Devin Lloyd to 3-year, $45M deal with $25M guaranteed. (via @RapSheet, @MikeGarafolo) pic.twitter.com/I7I27RznMm
— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2026
Risk and reward
Despite his breakout, Lloyd carries some risk. Jacksonville declined his fifth-year option after three inconsistent seasons, including a benching as a rookie. However, Carolina is betting that his recent success signals long-term growth.
Phillips joins the front
Edge rusher Jaelen Phillips agreed to a four-year, $120 million deal, according to NFL.com. Phillips battled injuries in 2023 and 2024 but rebounded last season, starting all 17 games and recording five sacks. His midseason trade to Philadelphia helped the Eagles finish No. 1 in scoring defense.
Offensive addition
On the other side of the ball, Carolina signed quarterback Kenny Pickett, per multiple reports. The former first-rounder, who went 16-11 as a starter with the Raiders, will compete with Andy Dalton for the backup role.
Playoff ambitions
The Panthers reached the postseason last year for the first time since 2017, finishing 8-9 before falling to the Rams in the wild-card round. By investing heavily in Lloyd and Phillips, Carolina is signaling that its playoff return was no fluke and that it intends to build a sustainable contender.
