The Carolina Panthers are entering the 2025 NFL offseason with one clear objective: upgrading their defense. After struggling in 2024, particularly in their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, the Panthers are looking to add an elite pass rusher who can immediately impact the game. Reports suggest that the team is closely evaluating two of the most talented edge rushers in the upcoming draft: Abdul Carter from Penn State and Mykel Williams from Georgia.
Why the Panthers Need a Game-Changer
The Panthers ranked near the bottom of the league in sacks and pressures last season. Despite having some solid defensive pieces, they lacked a consistent pass-rushing threat to disrupt opposing offenses. A dominant edge rusher would not only create more sack opportunities but also alleviate pressure on the secondary.
Carolina’s defense underperformed in key moments, and without a true game-changer in the front seven, quarterbacks had too much time to make plays. That’s why acquiring an explosive edge defender is a priority for the team heading into the draft.
Abdul Carter: A Rising Star
One name that has gained significant traction in Carolina’s scouting reports is Abdul Carter, a standout from Penn State. Carter transitioned to a full-time edge rusher role after initially playing as a linebacker, and the move paid off. In his junior season, he dominated the Big Ten, recording 11 sacks and 22 tackles for loss. His speed off the edge and ability to bend around offensive tackles make him one of the most feared defenders in college football.
Carter possesses a rare combination of explosiveness and agility, allowing him to get to the quarterback in a hurry. His motor is relentless, and his ability to read plays makes him a dangerous weapon in both pass-rushing and run-defense situations. The Panthers could use his talent to disrupt opposing offenses and give their defense a new identity.
Mykel Williams: The Prototypical Edge Rusher
Another potential target for the Panthers is Mykel Williams, a dominant edge rusher from Georgia. Standing at 6-foot-5, 265 pounds, Williams has the ideal size, strength, and quickness to become a premier defensive end in the NFL. Over his three-year college career, he posted 14 sacks and 23 tackles for loss, proving his ability to get into the backfield consistently.
Williams is praised for his technical skills, using his hands effectively to disengage from blockers. His power allows him to bull-rush offensive linemen, while his agility enables him to chase down mobile quarterbacks. If Carolina selects him, he could become a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.
How an Elite Pass Rusher Could Change the Game for Carolina
Adding a dynamic edge rusher like Carter or Williams would transform the Panthers’ defense. A strong pass rush leads to more turnovers, hurried throws, and disrupted offensive game plans. Pairing a young pass-rushing talent with veteran defenders like Jadeveon Clowney (if re-signed) could create an immediate impact.
With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Panthers have an opportunity to select a player who could change the course of their franchise. Will they land their next great defensive superstar? Time will tell.