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Panthers Predicted to Add Breakout Star in Free Agency

This would be a massive signing for the 2025 Panthers.

By Joe Summers

Dec 1, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) celebrates with offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu (79) after the panthers score with 30 seconds left to take the lead in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Dec 1, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) celebrates with offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu (79) after the panthers score with 30 seconds left to take the lead in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
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The Panthers have significant moves to make this offseason as they try to rebuild the roster once again. Carolina's defense has been a major issue but one new prediction sees them landing the breakout defensive star of the NFL this year.

Eagles LB Zack Baun, who ranks fourth in the league in tackles (118), signed just a one-year deal with Philadelphia prior to the year.

He's since more than proved his value, becoming one of the best pending free agents on the market. If the Panthers could land him, it'd represent a massive win.

Panthers Predicted to Sign Eagles LB Zack Baun

As showcased by his excellent performance against the Ravens, Baun is an elite linebacker at this point. He's only 27 years old and should be an All-Pro after spending four years in New Orleans before joining Philadelphia.

"Baun is having a career year in Philadelphia with a personal-best 105 total tackles through 11 games, 75 more than he's even had," Bleacher Report writes. "Also, the 27-year-old who turns 28 next month has surrendered a 79.8 passer rating when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus, and will likely be one of the top backers on the open market."

He since got 13 tackles against the Ravens, so Baun's stats are even better. On top of the tackles, he's added 2.5 sacks and four forced fumbles,

Building a strong defense is one of the best ways general manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales can support young QB Bryce Young. Baun would give them a bonafide star in the middle of the field.

It'll likely require a large contract, though the Panthers have the benefit of limited established talent. They're looking to the future with numerous players on rookie contracts. That gives Morgan the flexibility to sign Baun and give him what he's asking for to help transform the defense.

If Carolina can pull this off, it'd be a franchise-changing moment for an organization that desperately needs one.

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