Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan believes that the team needs to upgrade at the linebacker position. Morgan joined the “Panthers on Tap” podcast to discuss what he feels the team needs to do in regard to the position.
“I think it may be a combination of where we go in free agency and in the draft as well. We have to build up depth there. To your point, getting injuries at that position, and there being a pretty big drop-off. That’s a really big position for us. It’s the guy that stands in front of the huddle and demands that respect. We’re going to attack it, just like we attack needs every year.”
Although Christian Rozeboom led the team in tackles with 122, a an issue arose that may compel the Panthers to allow the 29-year-old to leave via free agency. First, while Rozeboom enjoyed his second consecutive season with at least 100 tackles, the ones he missed stand out.
According to Pro Football Reference, Rozeboom missed 17 tackles. Moreover, the missed tackles are a trend for the linebacker. Over the last three seasons, he’s missed a combined 42 tackles. Those misses potentially lead to first downs, big plays, and even touchdowns.
GettyCarolina Panthers linebacker Christian Rozeboom attempts to tackle Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving.
As mentioned, Rozeboom enters free agency next month. As a result, the team could look to go in a different direction. Plus, defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero’s scheme heavily depends on linebackers to succeed.
GettyCarolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero duringa 2024 team workout.
Panthers Defense Needs Better Linebacker Play to Excel
Evero runs a form of the 3-4 defense. With four linebackers on the field, the inside linebackers must control everything around them. Most importantly, the inside linebackers relay the calls and move players where they need to be. Additionally, the linebacker play is vital to blitz packages. For a team that loves dual high safeties and zone coverage, mobile play in the middle must occur. If not, games like the playoffs against the Rams will occur.
Possible Free Agent Signees Could Push for Quick Improvement
According to Spotrac, the Panthers have $11,687,593 in available cap space. With the team potentially shuttling off a few higher-paid veterans, a few reasonably priced but talented options do exist. For example, Leo Chenal of the Kansas City Chiefs could become an option. He doesn’t miss too many tackles (nine in the last 48 games).
Plus, as an accomplished blitzer, he can generate a pass rush. Last, he flashes the ability to cover underneath. Granted, teams complete 805 of their targets at Chenal, but he’s allowed only 2 touchdowns during his career. Spotrac lists his market value at $4.6 million.
GettyFree agent linebacker Leo Chenal.
Upcoming NFL Draft Presents Opportunity for Upgrades
The Panthers, if Morgan feels like linebacker is the team’s most pressing need, a player like Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles could make the most sense. At six-foot-four and 243 pounds, Styles can play in every position and situation that a linebacker will. From inside to outside and in subpackages, he potentially gives the Panthers a standout that could take their defense to another level.
#OhioState LB Sonny Styles vs. Indiana
He was everywhere. Athletic and rangy. Stack, shed, and finish ability. Arrives with violence.
Through 13 games this year, he has ZERO missed tackles as a run defender. pic.twitter.com/UKU73y3BAe
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) December 7, 2025
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GM Knows What Linebacker Could Mean Success for the Team
Historically, when the Panthers succeed, linebacker play matters. Morgan was a starter in Super Bowl 38, leading the team with 18 tackles that day. Also, a player like Luke Kuechly, regarded by many as a future Hall of Famer, helped the Panthers reach Super Bowl 50, earning seven All-Pro nods along the way. Can Morgan find the next playmaking linebacker in Carolina Panthers history?
GettyCarolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan during his time as a starting linebacker in 2005.
Panthers GM Gives Clear Answer About Team’s Biggest Need