Panthers Sign Defensive Cornerstone to Massive Contract Extension
Carolina now has its defensive leader locked up for another four years
By Joe Summers
The Panthers' busy offseason continued on Friday as they agreed to a massive, four-year contract extension with star defensive tackle Derrick Brown.
Originally the No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Brown has been one of the best tackles in the league over the last few years, establishing himself as a critical defensive cornerstone as Carolina hopes to rebuild itself into a contender around QB Bryce Young.
After trading away Brian Burns earlier in the offseason, keeping Brown became a top priority for the organization and now he'll be with the Panthers for years to come.
Panthers News: Carolina Signs DT Derrick Brown to Huge Extension
Panthers DT Derrick Brown is signing a four-year, $96 million extension that includes $63.165 million guaranteed, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 5, 2024
Deal negotiated by Brown’s agents Drew Rosenhaus, Jason Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey and Panthers execs Dan Morgan and Brandt Tillis. Drew Rosenhaus… pic.twitter.com/deXjEw0uHr
The four-year, $96 million deal includes over $63 million guaranteed and makes Brown the highest-paid player on the team.
He enjoyed the best season of his career in 2023, notching 103 tackles, 15 QB hits, six deflected passes, two sacks and even an interception. The Panthers can now build the defense around Brown's talents up front, and keeping him with the organization ensures roster continuity for the coming years.
A former star at Auburn, Brown has 245 career tackles and is now expected to help usher in a new era of Panthers football. Carolina has made several upgrades on the defense this offseason and has two top-40 draft picks, giving GM Dan Morgan and new head coach Dave Canales an opportunity to jumpstart the rebuild.
We'll see if any more moves are on the horizon, but keeping Brown allows Morgan to target the best players available. Carolina has it's defensive leader and it appears brighter days are ahead for Panthers fans.
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