The Carolina Panthers have made a surprising addition to their roster by signing Mapalo "Maz" Mwansa, a 20-year-old edge rusher from England, through the NFL's International Player Pathway program. Mwansa's journey is unique; originally focused on soccer, a friend's encouragement led him to sprinting and eventually the football field. His impressive 100-meter dash time caught the attention of NFL scouts, and he excelled at a Pro Day, showcasing his potential as a raw talent in the Panthers' rebuilding phase.

Mwansa is expected to work under the new outside linebackers coach, AC Carter, significantly reshaping the Panthers' pass rush strategy. Although he won't count against the active roster thanks to his IPP status, analysts believe his physical attributes resemble that of NFL stars like Nolan Smith Jr. The Panthers see him as a long-term project and a cultural addition to their evolving team dynamics.