CHARLOTTE — The Panthers took a significant step toward upgrading their defense, finding the kind of inside linebacker who can make an immediate difference.
According to multiple reports, including from NFL Network, the Panthers have agreed to terms with former Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd. Deals can't become official until the start of the league year on Wednesday.
Lloyd, 27, was a second-team All-Pro last season for the Jaguars and made his first Pro Bowl. The 6-foot-3, 235-pounder brings the kind of size and production the Panthers haven't had at the position lately.
He filled up the stat sheet for the Jaguars last year, with 81 tackles and five interceptions. Included in that total was a 99-yard pick-six against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.
A former first-round pick out of Utah, Lloyd has nine career interceptions, a forced fumble, and five fumble recoveries.
The Panthers had 15 interceptions last year, but they haven't had that kind of coverage ability inside in some time. Over the last two seasons, they've only had two picks by linebackers (one by Christian Rozeboom in 2025, one by Josey Jewell in 2024).
