NFL Analyst Rips Carolina Panthers for Free Agency Signing

The Carolina Panthers are coming off their best season since Cam Newton was their quarterback, as they made it to the playoffs and won the NFC South.

To build on the roster, Carolina was aggressive in free agency, signing edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to a four-year $120 million deal and linebacker Devin Lloyd to a three-year $45 million deal.

In a recent article by Ben Solak of ESPN, Lloyd was named as a 2025 breakout star who will not live up to his new contract. 

"Lloyd played better in 2025, but not as well as his production would indicate. This is a blip year -- and it won't be the only one at the top of the linebacker market, as recent big contracts are aging poorly at this changing position," Solak wrote.

Lloyd did play well in the 2025 season and put up great numbers, finishing with 81 total tackles, six tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery, seven pass deflections, five interceptions, and an interception return for a touchdown.

He earned his first career Pro Bowl nod and will now adjust to defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero's scheme. 

Carolina has some talent on defense, and if Lloyd and Phillips play up to their potential, it will be a major boost as they look to win a second straight division title.

However, if Lloyd and Phillips struggle, it would be a bad look for general manager Dan Morgan, as he committed a ton of money to the two defenders.

Phillips is coming off a solid season, as he finished with 53 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, five sacks, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.

He has proven to be a talented pass rusher, but with his big contract, he will now be expected to produce at an elite level.

The Panthers have a talented roster and took a step in the right direction with the playoff appearance, but they will need to be better than an 8-9 team in 2026 to repeat their success. Lloyd and Phillips will play a major role in winning a second-straight NFC South title if they play up to their contracts.

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