The Carolina Panthers had the 16th-ranked overall defense last season, but the team is taking steps to improve before the 2026 opener. The NFC South team has signed Pro Bowl linebacker Devin Lloyd.
Videos by FanBuzz
According to the available reports, Lloyd leaves the Jacksonville Jaguars and heads north to Charlotte. He will join the Panthers on a three-year, $45 million deal that includes $25 million guaranteed. He will earn an annual average salary of $15 million.
The finer contract details including cap hits, signing bonuses, and other factors are not yet available as the new league year just began on March 11.
A first-round pick out of Utah, Lloyd has spent four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He has been a full-time starter for the team while appearing in 63 games. He has registered 436 combined tackles and 18 quarterback hits while roaming the defense.
Last season served as the highlight of Lloyd's career thus far. He posted 81 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, and five interceptions. He returned one of these interceptions for a 99-yard touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Now, Lloyd becomes the latest piece of the Panthers' defensive puzzle. He joins a lineup that features several returning players and some newcomers.
The Panthers have already re-signed linebacker Isaiah Simmons and cornerback Akayleb Evans. They also brought in edge rusher Jaelan Phillips on a four-year, $120 million deal.
Phillips makes his way to Charlotte after spending just over four seasons with the Miami Dolphins and eight games with the Philadelphia Eagles. He helped the Eagles turn into the top scoring defense over the final stretch of the season.
Bringing in key defenders will be crucial for the Panthers, who struggled to stop teams on occasion. This includes giving up 42 points in a loss to the Patriots, 40 points in a loss to the Bills, and 34 points in a playoff loss to the Rams.
The Panthers also gave up 28 points to the Rams during the regular season but won the game after forcing three turnovers.
