South Charlotte Today

Last week, the Carolina Panthers were in Indianapolis for the NFL Combine, focusing on young talent. This week, their attention shifts to free agency and acquiring experienced players. The team aims to blend these elements to build a competitive roster for the 2025 season.

General Manager Dan Morgan has found alignment with Head Coach Dave Canales in this approach. Morgan emphasizes draft-and-develop strategies, while Canales focuses on player development, regardless of age. "Knowing coach Canales and knowing the program that he came from under Pete Carroll (in Seattle), it's a developmental program," said Morgan in Indianapolis.

The Panthers will start negotiating with free agents next Monday at noon. Although deals can't be finalized until Wednesday when the league year begins, this period is crucial for team building. The Panthers have 19 unrestricted free agents after re-signing quarterback Andy Dalton and long snapper JJ Jansen. Of those 19, 11 joined last offseason on one-year contracts.

Executive Vice President of Football Operations Brandt Tilis has prioritized flexibility in signing players to avoid future liabilities and dead money charges. Currently, the Panthers have 53 players under contract but only 21 through 2026 or beyond.

Morgan acknowledged that improving defense is a priority this year after bolstering the offensive line last season with Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis. "We're just looking to bring playmakers in here on both sides of the ball," Morgan stated.

Canales supports giving young players opportunities early on: "I am for playing rookies right away." Last year's draft class saw four players become de facto starters.

After a challenging 5-12 season, Morgan and Canales have gained perspective on team needs. They aim to strengthen both offense and defense sustainably as they enter their second full season together.

Canales noted his growing understanding of team dynamics: "I feel so much more clarity about where we need to go."

With nine draft picks available this year—eight within the first five rounds—the Panthers can continue adding young talent while addressing defensive needs like safeties and pass-rushers.

Both Morgan and Canales are committed to creating a balanced team that excels offensively and defensively by leveraging insights from their coaching staff.

"I get to learn from these guys," Canales remarked about his coaching experience as they prepare for upcoming challenges.