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.