Panthers Snatch Up Former Rams Safety With Ejiro Evero Ties

The Carolina Panthers have a concerted effort this offseason to sign potential low-risk, high-reward players in free agency to continue to improve their defense.

Last season, Carolina shockingly had the third-best passing defense in the league, giving up 171.5 yards per game. Additionally, the Panthers were ranked 17th in pass-DVOA. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero did a great job in his first year leading Carolina’s defense.

When free agency opened up last week, the Panthers let go of veteran safety Von Bell and filled his spot with former Los Angeles Rams safety Jordan Fuller. With the other safety spot already accounted for (Xavier Woods), it seems as if the Panthers’ secondary is set.

However, Carolina added another former Rams defensive back this offseason, signing Nick Scott to a one-year deal, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Scott, who spent last season with the Cincinnati Bengals, will reunite with Evero and defensive back coach Jonathan Cooley.

Last season with Cincinnati, the 28-year-old safety started in 10 out of 17 games. The 5-foot-11 defensive back recorded 57 combined tackles, a tackle for loss, and a quarterback hit. 

Scott did a great job in pass coverage, producing a 66.7 completion percentage allowed on targets and a 99.6 pass rating allowed when targeted. He also played 52 percent of defensive and 42 percent of offensive snaps.

Before joining the Bengals last season, Scott spent four years with the Rams but didn’t become a full-time starter until 2022 (86 combined tackles, five pass deflections, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles).

The Panthers will not expect Scott to start this season, but he’s an additional safety who can start if necessary and be one of their premier special teams players.

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