THE Carolina Panthers concluded their disastrous 2024-25 NFL campaign by allowing an incredible 534 pointsofficially establishing the record for worst defensive performance of the history of the league. Panthers defense, led by troubled coordinator Used Everoproved incapable of stopping anyone, culminating in a Week 18 humiliation against the Atlanta Falconswhere the All-Pro candidate Sesame Robinson ran tirelessly for 157 yards and two touchdowns.
A Season of Defensive Woes
From the start, the Panthers’ defense seemed destined for failure:
- Week 1 : Let it pass 47 points facing Derek Carr and to the Saints.
- Week 7 : Permis 40 points to a team of Commanders led by Marcus Mariota.
- Week 17 : Abandoned 48 points has Baker Mayfield and to the Buccaneers, setting a franchise record for time of possession allowed in a single game.
The consistent inability to stop both the run and pass defined a season marked by lapses in execution, questionable coaching schemes and an injury epidemic.
Injuries ravage Panthers squad
While injuries weren’t the only reason for the defensive collapse, they were a significant factor:
- Derrick Brown : Lost in Week 1 to a knee injury, removing Carolina’s most imposing defensive lineman.
- Jaycee Horn : Missed the last two games, leaving the second zone vulnerable.
- Shaq Thompson, Josey Jewell, DJ Wonnum et Trevin Wallace : Missed significant periods, weakening the linebacker corps.
These absences left the Panthers relying on unproven backups, who struggled greatly against attacks from NFL offenses.
Coaching questions weigh heavily
The defensive coordinator Used Evero faces increasing scrutiny for its patterns, particularly its reliance on a base defense 3-4 who was constantly shredded by opposing running attacks. Under Evero:
- Caroline was ranked last in run defense.
- The defense gave up historically poor performance week after week, including several career days for opposing running backs and quarterbacks.
Critics argue that Evero failed to adjust to personnel limitations and opposing game plans, leading to a unit that looked lost on the field.
Bijan Robinson delivers the final blow
In the last match of the season, Sesame Robinson embodied the Panthers’ defensive ineptitude. Falcons star running back inflicted on Carolina 157 yards and two touchdowns, effortlessly exploiting the huge holes in Evero’s scheme. It was another career day for an opponent, adding to the long list of players who feasted on Carolina’s porous defense.
A new low for the Panthers
Carolina’s defensive performance this season has officially exceeded 1981 Baltimore Coltswho previously held the record for most points allowed in a season (533). This dubious distinction highlights the urgent need for drastic changes on the defensive side of the team.
What are the next steps for Carolina?
As the Panthers enter the offseason, big questions arise:
- Reorganization of management : With Evero’s system under pressure, will the team look for a new defensive coordinator?
- Rebuild the squad : Injuries have exposed a lack of depth that needs to be addressed during free agency and the draft.
- Draft strategy : Carolina’s high draft pick will likely focus on strengthening the defensive line or secondary.
The Panthers front office faces an uphill battle to rebuild its credibility and competitiveness. Without decisive action, the once-proud franchise risks sinking further into irrelevance.
