The NFL offseason is crucial for teams to build on their strengths and address weaknesses, setting the stage for success in the upcoming season. While the regular season demands on-field performance, the offseason is where teams refine their roster, implement new strategies, and add the key ingredients that can make a difference. Whether it's through the NFL Draft, free agency, or trades, adding impactful players can elevate a team’s chances of competing at a high level. Strengthening the roster with key additions—such as playmakers, depth, and leaders—ensures that a team is ready to hit the ground running when the season begins. In essence, the offseason is not just about preparing for next year but shaping the future success of the franchise.
The conclusion of the 2024 season left the fans and team with a mix of emotions. It was a rollercoaster ride from start to finish, with every Panther fan in need of some therapy week after week. Yet, despite the turbulence of last season, there were moments of clarity—flashes of hope, brief glimpses of promise, and a few sweet victories to taste. Now, the question is: what needs to happen in the offseason to fill the remaining gaps and make this team stronger?
‘Defense – Defense – Defense’
There's no doubt that this defense was hit hard by injuries right at the start of the season, with key players like Shaq Thompson (LB) and Derrick Brown (DL) going down. To make matters worse, the defense struggled with a lack of depth at every position, which became clear when multiple defensive players were signed throughout the 2024 season. It's safe to say that strengthening the defense and adding depth across the board is crucial moving forward.
The key positions that need attention on this side of the ball are edge rusher, safety, cornerback, and linebacker—essentially, every position is in need of improvement. Despite the defense’s struggles toward the end of the season, the Panthers decided to retain Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero, which surprised some. Given the injuries and lack of depth, what Evero has managed to get out of this defense has been nothing short of impressive. Changes have already been made within the defensive staff, particularly in the secondary, but it remains to be seen how the final coaching staff for Carolina’s defense will shape up.
‘Offense’
The offensive side of the ball isn’t as far behind as the defense. If Bryce Young can continue where he left off, I’d say investing in more wide receivers and running backs would be a smart move. While many fans are calling for a tight end, I’d hesitate to prioritize that position too much, especially considering the current tight end room, excluding Ian Thomas (I hope).
With Adam Thielen open to returning and eager to team up with Bryce again after seeing his growth, I’d love to see a young, veteran wide receiver added to the roster. It would create a great balance of youth and experience in the WR room. Whatever moves are made on the offensive side, the offensive line must stay intact. With Jonathan Brooks likely out for the 2025 season, it would be smart to not only draft a running back but also sign an undrafted rookie and potentially target one in free agency. Of course, Carolina still has Miles Sanders under contract, but many are already ready to move on from him.
As the offseason approaches, it's clear that this team still has significant work ahead to become a true contender. However, with the right personnel in place, both on the field and in the front office, they are in a strong position to make the necessary decisions that could turn things around. The moves made in the coming months will be crucial, not only for the team's immediate success but for the future careers of several players and staff members. It's a pivotal moment that could shape the direction of the franchise for years to come.
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