North Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — When observing cornerback Jaycee Horn's role as the spiritual leader of the Panthers defense, it is evident that his big personality and matching talent make him a natural fit. Similarly, Derrick Brown, the cornerstone defensive tackle, exemplifies leadership through his work ethic during sprints and drills.

However, beyond these consistent figures lies significant change within the Panthers defense this year. Even 10th-year linebacker Shaq Thompson is adapting after breaking his ankle in Week 2 of his first season under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.

"It feels like I'm on a new team even though I'm still on the Panthers because we lost so many of our leaders on defense," Horn said this week. "So, it's just a new challenge, new team, new vibe."

Horn remains optimistic about the team's potential despite the changes. "I still think we could be one of the top defenses in the league," he said. "We have a thing where it doesn't matter who's out there; we play to the same standard."

The Panthers will need to adapt their defensive approach this year despite maintaining their coaching staff and scheme. Last season's statistics reveal inconsistencies: while they ranked fourth in yards allowed, they were 29th in points allowed and last in sacks with just 27.

This offseason saw significant roster changes affecting those numbers. Brian Burns (8.0 sacks) and Frankie Luvu (5.5 sacks) are among those who departed, leaving only Brown (2.0 sacks) and Shy Tuttle (0.5 sacks) from last year's sack contributors.

Rookie head coach Dave Canales acknowledged that adjustments are necessary for this year's defense. "I think we should [play differently]," Canales said. He emphasized a commitment to identifying strengths within the current group and adjusting accordingly while adhering to core principles.

The pass-rush capability appears diminished compared to previous years. Free agent outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney has 52.5 career sacks but lacks substantial support from others due to injuries and limited depth.

Clowney expressed confidence in other aspects of their front seven: "I think we do got the guys in the interior," he said regarding veteran inside linebackers Thompson and Josey Jewell joining Brown and Tuttle upfront.

Canales echoed similar sentiments about foundational aspects such as running efficiency and run-stopping abilities being crucial for success: "To me historically…the best teams I've been on have an ability to control that part of [the game]."

Improving run defense remains vital after ranking 23rd last year amidst opponents' clock management strategies late-game scenarios contributing towards high rushing attempts allowed ranking (28th). The addition of A'Shawn Robinson alongside stable midfield presence should bolster efforts against ground attacks significantly more than before.

In terms secondary communication improvements cited by Canales include safety Xavier Woods alongside veteran nickel Troy Hill backed up by Alex Cook whose practice performance impressed recently with pick-six interception showcasing potential impact players underpinned experience duo Jordan Fuller Nick Scott sharing Evero background Rams providing additional benefits cohesion overall setup defensively speaking

Ultimately progress made front determines outcome collectively stated Clowney emphasizing importance frontline contribution setting tone successfully aiding backend coverage challenges arise otherwise inevitable without adequate pressure exerted upfront hence responsibility falls shoulders primarily noted

Adapting personnel structure might involve increased blitzing compensate lacking edge-rushing capabilities thus altering dynamic requiring enhanced communication skills mitigate risks associated aggressive strategies employed potentially evolving throughout months ahead assessing developments closely anticipated beneficial longer term perspective ultimately ensuring competitive stance maintained amid changing landscape NFL seasons unfold progressively