The Carolina Panthers have been connected to a jarring trade for a Pro Bowl defender.
The Carolina Panthers made significant strides on the defensive side of the ball this past season, but they could still use some more help in that department.
The Panthers made a couple of key additions in free agency, signing edge rusher Jaelan Phillips as well as linebacker Devin Lloyd, but more pieces are needed.
Carolina is largely expected to address its defense early in the NFL Draft, specifically when it comes to bringing in another pass rusher. But the Panthers could also afford to beef up their interior, as well.
Derrick Brown is a terrific defensive tackle, but he could certainly use some help alongside of him, and with New York Giants star Dexter Lawrence suddenly requesting a trade, Yahoo Sports has tabbed Carolina as a potential destination.
"Carolina needs help on its defensive line, and really needs to add talent to that side of the ball overall. Lawrence checks those boxes, and he’d be a matchup nightmare playing alongside incumbent anchor DT Derrick Brown," Yahoo Sports wrote. "The Panthers also signed edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd in free agency. They don’t have much cap space, but they may decide that one of the best ways to help Bryce Young continue developing is having a staunch defense under Ejiro Evero’s command."
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images.Lawrence is coming off of a rough season in which he registered 31 tackles, a half of a sack and eight quarterback hits, representing the worst showing of his NFL career.
However, the 28-year-old appeared to be battling through injury in 2025, so he might just need a full offseason to get himself right.
When healthy, Lawrence is one of the most destructive forces in football.
The former first-round pick made three straight Pro Bowl appearances between 2022 and 2024 and possesses the ability both to stop the run and to rush the quarterback.
Lawrence has two years remaining on his contract with the Giants, but he has no more guaranteed money coming to him, which is why he has asked to be dealt.
If Carolina did want to pursue a trade for Lawrence, it would also have to ensure it compensates the Clemson product, as well.
Considering the Panthers won the NFC South division this past year, they might be interested in going for broke heading into 2026.
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