Carolina’s preseason opener against Cleveland offered a sharp All-22 read on a Panthers squad committed to a physical, effort-forward identity even in a loss. Bobby Brown III looks the part of a true nose tackle, capable of absorbing double teams and pressuring up the middle on passing downs, potentially anchoring Evero’s run-stuffing front in 2025. Austin Corbett captured the center job lead with steady hands, base, and interior presence, while Cade Mays flashed athleticism and occasional outside shoulder gaps—yet Corbett holds the edge heading into a competitive summer.

Rookie Nic Scourton showed burst, edge pursuit, and the ability to turn upfield, indicating instant depth behind Burns and Morgan. Corey Thornton, Louisville product, impressed with downhill physicality, and Trevin Wallace added chase-down pursuit that could translate to meaningful rotational snaps. Jalen Coker emerged as a legit No.2 target, and Trevin Wallace and Christian Rozeboom stand to benefit from an upgraded front. Demani Richardson and Lathan Ransom still have growth ahead, with Nick Scott providing veteran coverage support. The defense, coached by Evero and Cooley, remains physical across four quarters, while the vanilla play-calling on both sides masked some depth questions entering the season.

The Carolina Panthers suffered a historic defensive collapse in the 2024 NFL season, allowing the most points ever recorded in a single season. They ranked dead last in various defensive metrics, including yielding an astounding 179.8 rushing yards per game, far surpassing the second-worst team. This prompted a significant overhaul of the defense, with the addition of new veterans and promising draft picks.

Despite the influx of talent, one notable addition seems to be flying under the radar: Bobby Brown III. At 6-foot-4 and 332 pounds, the former Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman has the potential to become a key player in the Panthers' revamped defense. The Panthers' front office inked him to a three-year, $21 million deal, signaling their belief in his capabilities. Expect Brown to play a crucial role in improving the defensive statistics that plagued the Panthers last season.

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales is optimistic about the team's offseason acquisition of defensive lineman Bobby Brown III. Canales highlighted Brown's familiarity with the system and his impressive athleticism. The coach praised Brown's development under his former mentor, A'Shawn Robinson, noting the positive impact of their on-field chemistry. Brown's recent weight gain of seven or eight pounds in lean muscle is expected to enhance his performance this coming season, which is crucial for the Panthers' defensive strategy.

The Los Angeles Rams face an intriguing challenge in the upcoming season, as they will meet eight former players who signed with new teams this offseason. Among them is Cooper Kupp, who, after being cut by the Rams, has joined the Seattle Seahawks, heightening the intensity of their rivalry. The Rams will face Kupp in both Week 11 and Week 16, adding a compelling twist to those matchups.

Bobby Brown III and Christian Rozeboom have both landed with the Carolina Panthers, making their reunion with the Rams particularly interesting in Week 13. Meanwhile, Demarcus Robinson opted for the San Francisco 49ers after not being re-signed by the Rams, leading to critical games in Weeks 5 and 10. The changes within the Rams' roster highlight a significant turnover but also an opportunity for upcoming talent to shine.

Milton Williams, the standout defensive lineman who recently signed a lucrative four-year, $104 million deal with the New England Patriots, revealed that he was very close to joining the Carolina Panthers. During an interview, Williams shared how the negotiation process unfolded rapidly, with multiple teams competing for his services, ultimately leading to New England's late but decisive offer.

The Panthers, who made a significant bid, ultimately retained their stance when the Patriots upped the ante. Following the missed opportunity with Williams, Carolina swiftly pivoted, securing agreements with other notable defensive players, including Tershawn Wharton and Pat Jones II, to bolster their roster.