The Carolina Panthers will look to strengthen their defense in the 2025 NFL Draft, Head Coach Dave Canales and Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero have a unique opportunity to select elite talent from a pool of standout collegiate defenders. Carolina’s defense, while featuring young stars like DT Derrick Brown and CB Jaycee Horn, could benefit from additional playmakers to elevate the unit to a dominant level. Here are the top defensive prospects declaring for the NFL after the 2024 college football season that could transform the Panthers’ defense:
1. Jaylon Walker – Linebacker (Georgia)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 40
- Tackles: 87
- Sacks: 12.5
- Forced Fumbles: 1
Why He Fits the Panthers:
Jaylon Walker is a versatile linebacker who thrived at Georgia, one of college football’s premier defensive programs. Walker possesses exceptional range, instincts, and leadership skills, making him an ideal fit for Carolina’s defense. His ability to play sideline-to-sideline and contribute in both run defense and pass coverage would address the Panthers’ need for a three-down linebacker. Ejiro Evero could utilize Walker as a chess piece in a variety of defensive packages, helping to neutralize opposing offenses.
2. James Pierce – Edge Rusher (Tennessee)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 38
- Tackles: 70
- Sacks: 19
- Forced Fumbles: 3
Why He Fits the Panthers:
James Pierce has been a disruptive force off the edge for Tennessee, showcasing an explosive first step and the ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently. With Jadaveon Clowney on one side as a temporary solution, Pierce would provide a complementary presence on the opposite side, creating a dynamic edge duo. Pierce’s relentless motor and ability to defend the run make him a well-rounded addition to the Panthers’ front seven. Plus, Pierce is a local home grown talent, having played high school football at Julius Chambers High in Charlotte, winning two state championships.
3. Will Johnson – Cornerback (Michigan)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 36
- Tackles: 68
- Interceptions: 9
- Passes Defended: 10
Why He Fits the Panthers:
Will Johnson has developed into one of the nation’s top cornerbacks, excelling in Michigan’s defensive scheme. His size, speed, and instincts make him a perfect fit for Carolina’s secondary, which has struggled with injuries and depth in recent years. Pairing Johnson with Jaycee Horn would give the Panthers a lockdown cornerback duo capable of matching up against elite receivers. Johnson’s ball skills and ability to play both man and zone coverage would immediately elevate the Panthers’ pass defense.
4. Travis Hunter – Cornerback (Colorado)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 34
- Receptions: 171
- Interceptions: 9
- Tackles: 85
Why He Fits the Panthers:
Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter is one of the most unique and talented players in this draft class. He will literally fit on any NFL roster. A two-way star at Colorado, Hunter’s primary position is cornerback, where he has showcased elite athleticism, ball skills, and the ability to lock down opposing receivers. His versatility and playmaking ability would provide a significant boost to Carolina’s secondary. Hunter’s competitive nature and knack for game-changing plays make him a perfect fit for Ejiro Evero’s aggressive defensive schemes. Hunter may be one of the first 3 players selected however, slightly putting him out of Carolina’s reach. However…Carolina has traded up before in the 1st round…so…keep hope alive.
Conclusion
The Carolina Panthers have a chance to revitalize their defense in the 2025 NFL Draft with these top-tier prospects. Whether it’s adding a dynamic linebacker like Jaylon Walker, a relentless edge rusher like James Pierce, or elite cornerbacks like Will Johnson and Travis Hunter, each of these players has the potential to transform the Panthers’ defense into one of the league’s most formidable units. With Head Coach Dave Canales and Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero at the helm, these prospects could be the building blocks for long-term success in Carolina.
