Panthers Linebacker Corps Ranked 10th, Possibly Set
The Carolina Panthers' linebacker group ranks 10th in the league per Pro Football Focus, boosted by free-agent addition Devin Lloyd. Lloyd had a strong 2025 season and joins Trevin Wallace in the middle. The team improved defensively last year and may not need further moves.
The Panthers' defensive turnaround traces directly to roster moves made over two offseasons. After allowing a league-worst 404.5 yards per game in 2024, Carolina added safety Tre'von Moehrig and regained Derrick Brown from injury, helping the unit climb to 16th in total defense last season. This spring, general manager Dan Morgan continued the overhaul by signing pass rusher Jaelan Phillips to a four-year, $120 million contract and adding Devin Lloyd on a three-year, $42 million deal.
The competition at the second linebacker spot remains unresolved entering Thursday's preseason finale against Houston. Trevin Wallace, a 2024 third-round pick, has started 20 of 25 career games but dealt with injuries, recording 61 tackles in 12 contests last year. Claudin Cherelus, an undrafted free agent, posted 29 tackles in 14 games. Both have received nearly equal preseason snaps, leaving the coaching staff without a clear starter opposite Lloyd.
This story could signal how mid-tier NFL franchises approach roster building in a salary-cap era, prioritizing targeted free-agent additions over draft development. The Panthers' improved defense may influence fan expectations for a deeper playoff run, while the unresolved linebacker battle could affect on-field performance early in the season. For players like Wallace and Cherelus, the decision carries direct career implications, potentially shaping their roles, earnings, and long-term standing in the league.