Panthers could encounter this huge problem in NFL free agency

The Carolina Panthers may run into a crushing problem in NFL free agency.

Feb 25, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Carolina Panthers coach Dave Canales speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Carolina Panthers definitely need to make some significant roster additions this offseason in order to bolster their chances of a potential playoff run in 2025. That much is obvious.

The Panthers had the worst statistical defense in NFL history this past season, and Bryce Young is pretty short on weapons offensively.

Basically, Carolina needs to add some pieces, as it is entirely possible that the Panthers could make a push in the weak NFC South next season.

But here's the problem: Carolina went just 5-12 in 2023 and has missed the playoffs seven straight years, and that isn't exactly an attractant to the top free agents on the market.

Brian Beversluis of Cat Scratch Reader recently fielded a question from a fan asking which top players would spurn the Panthers in order to take less money from a contender, and Beversluis listed off several stars that included Jevon Holland, Khalil Mack and D.J. Reed.

It's a depressing reality for the Panthers who, even though they looked impressive down the stretch last year, have unfortunately not build a good reputation around the NFL.

Carolina also doesn't have a ton of cap room, so it's not like the Panthers can go the New England Patriots route and simply bully rival teams by flashing dollars.

Most likely, Carolina will have to focus heavily on the NFL Draft, and that's perfectly fine for a rebuilding team (and let's face it; that's what the Panthers are), but will definitely be pretty discouraging if Dan Morgan completely strikes out on the open market in a couple of weeks.

Sadly, based on how things tend to go in this league, it's a distinct possibility that that occurs.

Feb 25, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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

Insider names Panthers as top destination for game-changing defender

Bryce Young, Panthers hit by crushing news on top wide receiver target

Panthers linked to rising Raiders edge rusher as ‘dream’ free agent

39-TD Super Bowl champion predicted to sign with the Carolina Panthers