Panthers Projected Defensive Starters Following Free Agency
In this story:
Carolina has seen a lot of personnel change on the offensive side of the ball, but it will be more of a schematic change on the defensive side going from a 4-3 multiple to a 3-4. The Panthers did add a few new names that will likely be starting on defense, but for the most part, they'll have the majority of what was a top-10 defense returning.
DE Derrick Brown
Brown hasn't had much pass-rush production through the first couple of years of his career but I believe that will change in his new role in Evero's 3-4 scheme.
NT Shy Tuttle
Tuttle eats up blocks and can take on double teams extremely well along with getting his hands up and disrupting passing windows. He makes the most sense at the nose.
DE DeShawn Williams
I think we'll see Williams split time here with Henry Anderson, who was recently brought back on a one-year deal. This will likely play out in training camp, but I expect Williams to have a leg up in the competition due to his past with Evero.
OLB Yetur Gross-Matos
Gross-Matos has shown flashes over the course of his first three years in the league but hasn't really taken that step as a pass rusher. Instead, he's been more of a run stuffer which is okay if he can do it consistently. I imagine he'll be the starter unless they make another move between now and the start of the season, but this is a crucial year for him.
ILB Frankie Luvu
Luvu is going to be someone that Evero moves around quite a bit in this defense. If Carolina drafts an inside backer that is ready to play fairly early in the year, I could see Luvu taking Gross-Matos' spot on the outside.
ILB Shaq Thompson
Thompson reworked his deal to remain a Panther. He wants to be here and be a part of the team that changes the narrative surrounding the organization. Not only is his return important for his play on the field but the leadership he has is just as valuable.
OLB Brian Burns
Burns is going to feast in this new scheme, so much so that I think 15 sacks is certainly doable. Maybe more.
CB Jaycee Horn
Jaycee Horn has developed at a fast rate and has quickly turned himself into one of the top young corners in the game. The key for him this season is to stay healthy. He's played in just 16 games through his first two years.
FS Xavier Woods
Woods was one of the most underrated free agent signings from a year ago. He improved the communication significantly in the back end, which led to fewer busted coverages/explosive plays.
SS Vonn Bell
Bell had a career-high four interceptions and eight pass breakups last season with Cincinnati. This is a big pick-up for many reasons, but most importantly, it allows Evero to use Jeremy Chinn in many ways.
CB Donte Jackson
Donte's season came to an abrupt end when he suffered a torn Achilles in the Thursday night game against Atlanta. If he's able to return to what he was before the injury, Carolina will have one of the best cornerback tandems in the NFC.
NB Jeremy Chinn
The signing of Vonn Bell allows Chinn to be utilized more as a chess piece. He can now play down in the box which gives him more opportunities to make plays.
You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:
Facebook - @PanthersOnSI
Twitter - @AllPanthers_ and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_.
