Panthers Sign Versatile LB Devin Lloyd to 3-Year Deal

Former Jaguars Pro Bowler brings playmaking ability to Carolina's defense

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:00am

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The Carolina Panthers have signed former Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd to a 3-year, $45 million contract. Lloyd, a 2025 Pro Bowler, is known for his versatility as a run-stopper, pass-rusher, and coverage linebacker. The Panthers are hoping he can help improve a defense that struggled mightily in 2024, allowing the most total yards and rushing yards in the NFL that season.

Why it matters

The Panthers are looking to bounce back on defense after a historically bad 2024 campaign. Lloyd's addition gives them a playmaking linebacker who can contribute in multiple ways, which should help shore up their unit. His ball-hawking skills in coverage are also an area of need, as Panthers linebackers have combined for just 5 interceptions over the past 3 seasons under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.

The details

Lloyd, the 27th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had a breakout 2025 season with the Jaguars, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He recorded 81 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 1 forced fumble. The Panthers were drawn to Lloyd's versatility, as he ranked in the 90th percentile or above in run defense, pass rush, and coverage grades according to Pro Football Focus. Lloyd credits the Jaguars' coaching staff for helping him become more physical and violent as a run-stopper by emphasizing the use of his hands to shed blocks.

  • In March 2026, the Panthers signed Devin Lloyd to a 3-year, $45 million contract.
  • Lloyd made the Pro Bowl for the first time in the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Devin Lloyd

A 27-year-old linebacker who was a first-round draft pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022 and made the Pro Bowl in 2025.

Ejiro Evero

The Carolina Panthers' defensive coordinator since 2023.

Dan Morgan

The general manager of the Carolina Panthers.

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What they’re saying

“Lloyd is that rare, off-ball linebacker who's a force as a run stopper, while still making plays as a blitzer and in coverage. Pro Football Focus ranked Lloyd above the 90th percentile last season in run defense, pass rush and coverage grades.”

— Joseph Person, Reporter, The Athletic

“A lot of plays I made in zone coverage. You just have a feel for looking at the quarterback, knowing where he wants to go...Knowing the route concepts is huge. It's really about getting to your landmark as quick as possible, and then that allows you to play off the routes. I see a lot of linebackers drifting. They're not set. Their feet aren't set, and it doesn't allow them to get their feet in the ground and make plays on the ball in the air.”

— Devin Lloyd

What’s next

The Panthers will look to Lloyd to be a key contributor on their defense as they aim to bounce back from a historically bad 2024 season.

The takeaway

By signing the versatile Devin Lloyd, the Panthers have added a playmaker to their defense who can impact the game in multiple ways. His ability to excel as a run-stopper, pass-rusher, and coverage linebacker should help shore up a unit that struggled mightily in 2024.