North Charlotte Today

INDIANAPOLIS — The recent Super Bowl highlighted the importance of a strong defensive line, as demonstrated by the Eagles' success against the Chiefs. However, Panthers general manager Dan Morgan is already aware of his team's need for improvement in this area.

"Yeah, I don't think we needed the Eagles game to understand that," Morgan stated. "I think on both sides of the ball, you have to win the line of scrimmage. You have to be bigger, you have to be tougher, you have to be more physical, and that's what we're looking to do around here."

The Panthers faced challenges last season, ranking last in defense and setting records for points allowed. Morgan acknowledged the pressing need for defensive upgrades.

"I think that's pretty obvious that we need help on the defensive side of the ball," he said. "Whether up front, at safety, at corner. There's a lot of holes to fill there."

While offensive needs are also recognized, defense remains a priority with 10 out of 21 unrestricted free agents being defensive players. The team has already re-signed two players but still requires significant reinforcements.

Morgan mentioned hopes for securing a contract with cornerback Jaycee Horn and highlighted past extensions like Derrick Brown's as steps towards building a stronger defense.

Cornerback Mike Jackson is among those listed as free agents along with all safeties except Demani Richardson. Addressing these gaps is crucial after allowing over 200 rushing yards in each of their final six games last season.

Offensive coordinator Canales emphasized multiple ways to improve run defense through interior play and linebacker contributions: "Stop the run, whatever that looks like; you can affect the run in different ways."

Canales supports defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero despite needing better personnel: "It's going to be built around toughness," Canales added about their future strategy focused on great run-game defense.

"It's clear; people can see the challenges that we saw from a defensive standpoint... Let's make sure we have those pieces so that we can be an attacking style of defense and make it really challenging on opposing offenses."