Panthers Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero Gets Honest on Jaelan Phillips

The Carolina Panthers ended their playoff drought in the 2025 season, finishing with an 8-9 record and winning the NFC South.

The Panthers then had a competitive battle in the Wild Card against the Los Angeles Rams, losing 34-31. 

In the offseason, Carolina was aggressive in upgrading the roster further. One of their key moves was inking edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to a four-year, $120 million deal.

Phillips is coming off a solid season in 2025, as he finished with 53 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, five sacks, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. 

"He's really, really fast," Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero said. "There's not a lot of humans in the world that are that big, and that can move the way he does."

Phillips will be a key piece for Carolina's defense as they try to make it to the playoffs for a second straight season. He will also help star defensive tackle Derrick Brown have a productive season.

The one-time Pro Bowler finished with 73 total tackles, five tackles for loss, five sacks, and a forced fumble in 2025. Between Phillips and Brown, Evero has a talented defense to lead.

However, the Panthers will also need production from quarterback Bryce Young and the offense. Young is coming off a career year in 2025, as he completed 63.6 percent of his passes for 3,011 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. 

Young also rushed for 216 yards and two touchdowns. The 24-year-old has yet to sign a long-term extension with Carolina, making the 2026 season pivotal for his future with the franchise.

He should have another productive season, as he has talented weapons like the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, Tetairoa McMillan. 

McMillan was impressive in his rookie campaign, as he hauled in 70 receptions for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns.

With the talented players on both offense and defense, Carolina has a chance to win a second straight NFC South title despite having a first-place schedule in 2026. 

Evero has a clear belief in Phillips, and he will look to thrive in the lead pass-rusher role for the Panthers.

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