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.

The Los Angeles Rams have secured defensive lineman Larrell Murchison with a one-year deal after he faced a challenging 2024 season marred by injuries. Originally starting the season on injured reserve due to a forearm injury, Murchison broke his foot in practice upon his return, sidelining him for the year. Despite this setback, the Rams are hopeful that Murchison can contribute alongside new signing Poona Ford, following the loss of Bobby Brown III and Neville Gallimore during free agency.

Murchison joined the Rams late in the 2022 season, and during his time with the team, he has showcased his potential by playing in 18 games and making significant contributions with two sacks and 22 total tackles. The Rams are looking to solidify their defensive line, and Murchison's return could be pivotal in enhancing their defensive capabilities moving forward.

The Carolina Panthers have recently signed two promising defensive linemen, Bobby Brown III and Tershawn Wharton, following a near-miss on securing a top-tier defensive tackle. Wharton, who previously shone with the Kansas City Chiefs, has been awarded a hefty three-year contract worth $57 million, which has drawn scrutiny for its size given his relatively modest track record. Despite only having one standout season with 6.5 sacks in 2024, the Panthers are banking on his potential to elevate his play, especially alongside defensive stalwart Derrick Brown.

Wharton's presence is expected to solidify the Panthers' defensive line, which struggled last season. The team aims to transition to Ejiro Evero's preferred 3-4 defensive scheme, where Wharton might take on a dual role, either backing up Brown or shifting to a left defensive end position. This strategic pivot not only provides depth but also aims to enhance their overall defensive performance moving forward.