North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers are making strategic moves to strengthen their defense for the 2025 season. According to multiple reports, including from NFL Network, the team has reached an agreement with Patrick Jones II, a linebacker previously with the Minnesota Vikings. The deal will become official when the league year starts on Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Jones was initially drafted by Minnesota in the third round of the 2021 draft and is now set to join the Panthers. Known for his versatility and strength, Jones has a unique background as part of a military family. Born in Yokosuka, Japan, he spent his early years moving between Jacksonville, Florida; Naples, Italy; and back to Japan before settling in Chesapeake, Virginia for high school.

His physical prowess was highlighted during the 2023 offseason when he posted a video of himself box squatting 675 pounds on Instagram. His strength has been complemented by improved performance on the field. "This year, Year 4, coming into camp, man, I feel like his game changed completely," said Christian Darrisaw of vikings.com last season. "He's always been strong... but then really developing into a pass rusher into this league."

Last season proved successful for Jones as he recorded career highs with seven sacks on 297 pass rush snaps and also contributed significantly with tackles and pressures. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell praised him: "I think Pat's really figured out what he is as a rusher... That's the one word that comes to mind when I think of Pat... he's done a great job of that."

Joining the Panthers will reunite Jones with former teammate D.J. Wonnum from their time together in Minnesota. Wonnum had an impactful return from injury last season with notable defensive contributions.

Outside football, Jones enjoys fishing and often combines it with film study while relaxing on a boat.