Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan shares what he sees in key defensive rookie

Former Ohio State safety Lathan Ransom could have a huge impact for Carolina as a rookie, one way or another.

Ohio State Buckeyes safety Lathan Ransom prepares to run the 40 during the pro day for NFL scouts at the Woody Hayes Athletic Cente on March 26, 2025. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Carolina Panthers needed to add help at all three levels of their defense this offseason. Most of all though they had to replace what had been arguably the worst starting safety duo in the league in 2024. That consisted of Xavier Woods - who's since moved on to the Tennessee Titans - and Jordan Fuller - now with the Atlanta Falcons.

The Panthers checked one of those two critical boxes when they signed Tre'Von Moehrig to three-year deal in free agency. Who will fill the other spot still remains to be seen, but Carolina added a promising option in the draft when they took Ohio State safety Lathan Ransom in the fourth round.

Like Moerig, Ransom is more of a run defender and around-the-box hitter than a deep third, ball-hawking kind of safety. However, Ransom's game is not one dimensional and he may have a chance to compete his way into the starting lineup over the summer.

Here's what general manager Dan Morgan had to say about watching Ransom on film, according to Kassidy Hill at the team website.

Sep 22, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan during the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Dan Morgan on Lathan Ransom

"Just watching Lathan's tape, just, the way that he plays the game, again, it goes back to the passion, the energy, and the love of the game that he plays with,... You could tell he just enjoys the physical aspects of the game and just being out there with his teammates, celebrating with each other, and just having fun. So, he's exciting to watch."

To earn a starting spot there's a good chance that Ransom will have to get past a proven veteran like Julan Blackmon, who's still a free agent for now but someone who Carolina has shown interest in.

For now, Ransom will compete with the likes of Demani Richardson and Nick Scott for playing time.

- Enjoy more free Panthers coverage with Carolina Panthers on SI - 

Analyst says Panthers should trade DE coming off career year

Carolina Panthers named among most improved teams in NFL

Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard raves about Bryce Young’s work ethic

Nick Wright digs up tired old take about Panthers QB Bryce Young