The Carolina Panthers are increasing their focus on the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, particularly on University of Georgia pass rusher Mykel Williams. Both Tony Pauline and Joe Person have noted Carolina's keen interest in the 20-year-old, especially with the Panthers holding the eighth overall pick. After a disappointing season where their pass rush ranked lowest in the NFL with a pressure rate of just 16.2%, the addition of a strong edge defender like Williams could be crucial. Jadeveon Clowney's experience and health will be pivotal in shaping their strategy.

Williams has made a name for himself as a standout at Georgia, earning second-team All-SEC honors in both 2023 and 2024, and accumulating 9.5 sacks over those seasons. The Panthers have made few changes to their pass-rushing unit this offseason, making Williams a promising target to bolster their defense.

The Carolina Panthers face a pivotal offseason as they aim to enhance their roster for a serious run in the NFC South. Following encouraging progress in the second half of 2024, they are positioned closer to contention, despite currently holding about $30 million in salary cap space, ranking 20th in the NFL. To address multiple team needs, the Panthers must consider difficult financial decisions, including potentially trading Jadeveon Clowney, whose performance has not matched expectations. The team would save approximately $8 million by moving on from Clowney, allowing them to pursue younger and more dynamic pass rushers or even attract a star player to bolster their lineup.

The Carolina Panthers are facing a significant need for edge rushers, highlighted by their struggles to generate consistent pressure last season. Current players Jadeveon Clowney and DJ Wonnum have shown some potential, but they are not reliable options moving forward. The Panthers may explore free agency, with Khalil Mack as a possible short-term solution. Additionally, they might consider drafting prospects like Abdul Carter, James Pearce Jr., or Jalon Walker, although their options could be limited.

Another interesting yet controversial possibility is the potential acquisition of Von Miller, should he be released by the Buffalo Bills. While Miller's past performances raise concern for Panthers fans, especially given his role in their Super Bowl loss years ago, his experience could benefit younger players. As the team eyes the future, they must balance immediate needs against long-term goals.

The Carolina Panthers are in a challenging position as they approach the 2025 NFL season, particularly on defense. With limited talent currently on the roster, General Manager Dan Morgan must tread carefully while assembling a more effective defense against the run. This includes enhancing pressure and coverage capabilities across all three levels of the defense. Despite suggestions to trade Jadeveon Clowney, recent performances indicate that a trade could set back their development plans. Clowney's five-sack season, bolstered by DJ Wonnum's presence, demonstrates potential when aligned with the right talent. Instead of trading him, investing in a promising edge rusher in the draft could be a wiser strategy to ensure a more robust lineup moving forward.

The Carolina Panthers continue to struggle with their pass rush, recording a league-low 27 sacks in 2023 and only slightly improving to 32 the following year. This inconsistency has raised concerns, especially with their top sack leaders, Jadeveon Clowney and A’Shawn Robinson, both achieving just 5.5 sacks. The team lost a key player, Brian Burns, who was traded to the New York Giants, where he totaled 8.5 sacks last season.

Looking ahead, the Panthers may focus on enhancing their pass rush in the upcoming draft. Analysts suggest the team could draft Kyle Kennard, a promising pass-rusher from South Carolina who had an impressive season, accumulating 11.5 sacks and demonstrating explosive physicality. Kennard's performance signals potential improvement for the Panthers' defensive front if selected.