Panthers Eyeing 2-Time Pro Bowl Pass Rusher as Free Agent Target

Carolina looking to bolster their pass rush with recently released defensive standout.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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The Carolina Panthers are reportedly interested in signing free agent outside linebacker Bradley Chubb, who was recently released by the Miami Dolphins. Chubb, a two-time Pro Bowler, could provide a much-needed boost to the Panthers' pass rush, which struggled mightily last season.

Why it matters

The Panthers' defense was a major weakness in 2025, ranking near the bottom of the league in pressure rate and sacks. Adding an elite pass rusher like Chubb could transform their defense and help the team build on their first division title in a decade.

The details

Chubb, who has shared history with Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero from their time together in Denver, is coming off an 8.5 sack season with the Dolphins. Panthers general manager Dan Morgan did not rule out the possibility of signing Chubb, stating that the team will "explore that" and "talk to his agent" about a potential deal.

  • Chubb was released by the Dolphins less than two weeks ago.
  • Morgan addressed the possibility of signing Chubb during media availability at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday.

The players

Bradley Chubb

A two-time Pro Bowl outside linebacker who was recently released by the Miami Dolphins.

Dan Morgan

The president of football operations and general manager for the Carolina Panthers.

Ejiro Evero

The defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, who previously worked with Chubb in Denver.

Nic Scourton

A rookie defensive player for the Carolina Panthers who tied for the team lead in sacks last season.

Princely Umanmielen

A defensive player for the Carolina Panthers who is expected to take on a bigger role.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think anything's gonna be off the table. We'll explore that, we'll talk to his agent. But I wouldn't say anything's upcoming. But we'll definitely stay in that and see where it goes.”

— Dan Morgan, President of football operations and general manager, Carolina Panthers (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Panthers will continue discussions with Chubb's agent about potentially signing the veteran pass rusher to bolster their defense.

The takeaway

The addition of a proven pass rusher like Bradley Chubb could be a game-changer for the Panthers, who are looking to build on their division title and take their defense to the next level after a disappointing 2025 season.