Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan made significant investments in free agency and the draft to strengthen his defensive front, yet the team struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks throughout the 2025 season. The Panthers particularly struggled with their pass rush and linebacker play, highlighting a clear need for improvement at linebacker to complement their defensive line. ESPN writer David Newton underscored this issue by pointing out the Panthers’ deficiency inside and outside the linebacker spots.
According to Newton,
“Inside and outside linebacker. Carolina invested heavily in edge rushers last year in free agency and the draft, and yet still ranks near the bottom of the league in sacks and QB pressures. Whether to invest heavily in free agency is the big question. The Panthers’ lack of an inside linebacker who was adept at dropping into coverage was a detriment in 2025, making it a huge need.”
Statistics back this assertion: the Panthers recorded 93 total pressures in 2025, ranking 31st in the NFL according to Pro Football Reference. This troubling performance reflects the urgency of bolstering the linebacker corps both inside and outside the formation.
Analyzing Inside Linebacker Performance and Weaknesses
Christian Rozeboom led the team with 122 tackles last season, but deeper evaluation reveals several shortcomings impacting the defense’s effectiveness. He missed 17 tackles, a number that allowed opposing offenses to extend drives and gain additional yardage. Rozeboom’s physical limitations, particularly in speed and agility, hinder his ability to pursue plays moving away from his position, reducing his overall impact on the field.
Moreover, Rozeboom struggled in coverage, conceding 51 receptions—the second-most on the Panthers. Opponents frequently targeted the zones he was responsible for, and his high completion percentage allowed further exposed vulnerabilities in the defensive scheme. With Rozeboom entering free agency this week, the Panthers appear poised to seek new talent capable of shoring up these weaknesses.
Leo Chenal Offers Versatility and Pass-Rush Skills
Linebacker Leo Chenal presents an appealing option for Carolina due to his ability to operate both inside and outside effectively. At 25 years old, Chenal demonstrates the versatility needed to rush the passer from various alignments, including from the outside and through the A gap, while also contributing robustly in run defense. His arm length and explosive burst enable him to shed blockers efficiently, delivering impact plays in multiple defensive phases.
Chenal’s skill set aligns well with the Panthers’ divisional challenges, where adaptable linebackers face dynamic running backs regularly. Financially, Chenal offers affordability with a reported market value near $4.6 million, making him one of the more cost-effective linebacker options on the market for Carolina.
Devin Bush Brings Leadership and Game-Changing Playmaking
Another prospective target is linebacker Devin Bush, whose playing style mirrors the passion and intensity that former Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan himself displayed. Bush excels at delivering high-impact tackles and has a demonstrated ability to cover ground in coverage. In 2025, he led the NFL in interception return touchdowns and total return yardage, highlighting his knack for game-changing plays.
Despite being somewhat undersized for the position at 5’11” and 235 pounds, Bush uses strength, leverage, and quick hand techniques to disrupt blockers and control the line of scrimmage. His skill set would command a premium, likely exceeding Chenal’s price, but he would also provide defensive leadership in addition to his playmaking ability.
DEVIN BUSH 97-YARD PICK SIX! pic.twitter.com/lI7VEVnQg6
— Blue By 90 (@bluebyninety) January 4, 2026
Balancing Improvement With Financial Discipline
Though the Panthers clearly need to enhance their linebacker corps, the path forward does not necessarily require extravagant spending. Both Chenal and Bush represent viable upgrades that can be acquired for under $10 million, allowing Carolina to strengthen its defense without breaking the bank. General manager Dan Morgan must weigh the benefits of injecting fresh talent at linebacker while managing financial constraints prudently.
With Rozeboom’s free agency status and the team’s clear struggles in pass coverage, especially at the linebacker positions, these potential acquisitions might redefine Carolina’s defensive identity going forward. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks and improve coverage could elevate the Panthers’ competitiveness in a tough NFC South division.
DEVIN BUSH 97-YARD PICK SIX! pic.twitter.com/lI7VEVnQg6
— Blue By 90 (@bluebyninety) January 4, 2026
