The Carolina Panthers’ 2025 season ended earlier than fans would’ve liked, but make no mistake-this was a year that reignited hope in Charlotte. For the first time since 2017, the Panthers found themselves back in the playoffs.
And they didn’t just sneak in-they earned it. Despite a tough postseason loss, the home crowd got a chance to celebrate alongside franchise legends like Cam Newton, Luke Kuechly, Steve Smith, and Jake Delhomme.
Now, with the season in the rearview mirror, the real work begins for GM Dan Morgan and executive Brandt Tillis as they tackle a pivotal offseason.
And at the top of their to-do list? Deciding which players-many of them key contributors-should return in 2026.
Offense: Decisions in the Trenches
The offensive line was a surprising strength this season, especially considering the constant shuffle due to injuries. Several of those linemen now hit the open market, and the front office will need to make some smart, calculated moves to maintain depth and continuity.
Austin Corbett filled in at both guard and center, showing his value as a versatile depth piece. While he may not command starter-level money, he’s the kind of player you want in your rotation-especially if injuries hit again.
Yosh Nijman stepped up in a big way after Ikem Ekwonu went down with a ruptured patellar tendon. Nijman’s performance didn’t just plug a hole-it gave the Panthers stability at a critical moment. That kind of reliability is hard to find, and Carolina would be wise to bring him back.
Cade Mays, who took over at center, proved he could handle the starting job. And Brady Christensen, who’s coming off a significant injury, remains one of the most flexible offensive linemen in the league.
He can play all five positions up front-a rare and valuable trait. If the price is right, both should be back.
Christensen may explore starting opportunities elsewhere, but if the market is slow, Carolina could benefit from his return once again.
In the backfield, Rico Dowdle made it clear he’s looking for a larger role-ideally, as a featured back. With Jonathon Brooks returning and Trevor Etienne showing real promise, the Panthers’ backfield is getting crowded. Dowdle might be the odd man out.
At wide receiver, two young players-Jalen Coker and Brycen Tremayne-are exclusive rights free agents. That means if Carolina offers them a one-year deal at the league minimum, they can’t negotiate elsewhere.
Coker has emerged as a reliable WR2, while Tremayne does the dirty work-blocking in heavy sets and making the occasional clutch catch. Ideally, the team locks up Coker on a longer deal, but either way, both should be back in the fold.
Defense: Rebuilding the Core
This defense had its moments, even while dealing with a lack of depth and star power. Now, several key contributors are entering free agency.
Christian Rozeboom was a steady presence in a thin linebacker group. He’s not flashy, but he gets the job done-and that consistency should earn him another year in Carolina.
Nick Scott, the starting safety, had a more polarizing season. He’s well-liked in the locker room, but fan perception hasn’t always been kind. Whether or not he returns may come down to scheme fit and cap flexibility.
One name that should absolutely be on the priority list is Isaiah Simmons. The former first-rounder showed flashes of the athleticism and playmaking ability that once made him such a coveted prospect. His special teams impact-highlighted by a blocked punt against the Rams-was a reminder of just how dynamic he can be when used correctly.
Claudin Cherelus is another name to watch. The linebacker stepped in after Trevin Wallace went down and didn’t miss a beat. As a restricted free agent, Carolina has the inside track to keep him, and based on his late-season performance, they should.
Special Teams: Keep the Band Together
Special teams were a strength this season, and the Panthers would be wise to keep that continuity intact.
JJ Jansen, the longtime long snapper, is as steady as they come. He’s been a Panther for life, and unless he decides to hang it up, there’s no reason to believe he won’t be back.
Sam Martin was a legitimate weapon in the punting game. Field position matters-especially for a team still building its identity on both sides of the ball-and Martin delivered consistently. He should be a top priority to re-sign.
The trio of Jansen, Martin, and kicker Ryan Fitzgerald worked seamlessly together. That kind of chemistry on special teams is often overlooked but critically important. Keeping that group intact would go a long way toward maintaining stability next season.
This offseason won’t be about flashy moves-it’ll be about smart ones. The Panthers have a young core, a playoff appearance to build on, and a front office that’s shown it can navigate tough decisions. With the right calls in free agency, this team has a real shot to take another step forward in 2026.