Carolina Panthers’ Climb Falls Short of True Contender Status

Season‑by‑Season Jump

After a disastrous 2023 campaign that ended with a 2‑15 record, Carolina showed steady growth in 2024 by winning five games. The franchise reached a new milestone in 2025, posting eight victories and clinching the NFC South division title. However, the division crown came via a three‑way tie, leaving questions about the depth of the surge.

The upward trajectory is undeniable, yet the Panthers still sit well below the elite tier of the league. Anonymous executives in the NFL’s inner circle view the roster as below average, a perception underscored by recent ranking data. The climb has begun, but the gap to genuine contender status remains sizable.

Running Backs Remain a Question Mark

ESPN’s new starting‑lineup rankings, compiled by league insiders, placed Carolina at No. 24 overall and singled out the running back spot as the club’s biggest weakness. Chuba Hubbard is set to return after a difficult 2025 season marked by injuries and a loss of starting duties to Rico Dowdle. Dowdle will not be back, opening a competition among younger talents.

2024 second‑round pick Jonathon Brooks, who has appeared in only one game over two seasons because of torn ACLs, will contend for the role. Adding to the mix is 2025 fourth‑rounder Trevor Etienne, who brings youthful potential. While the group offers hope, its unproven nature keeps the position a clear concern for the coaching staff.

Offensive Line Emerges as Strength

Execs highlighted the offensive line as the Panthers’ top asset, crediting both the free‑agent market and the draft for bolstering the trench. Left tackles Rasheed Walker and Monroe Freeling joined forces, while centers Luke Fortner and Sam Hecht anchored the interior. The addition of these pieces has provided Carolina with the building blocks for a solid passing protection scheme.

The improved line has already translated into better play, giving the offense a chance to stay on the field longer and open up avenues for the running game. By locking down the run and pass protections, the Panthers aim to create a platform for the rest of the roster to thrive.

Defensive X‑Factors Bring Hope

The Panthers’ defensive turnaround is hinged on two high‑profile free‑agent signings: outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips and inside linebacker Devin Lloyd. Phillips is expected to provide pass‑game disruption and enhance run‑stopping capabilities, while Lloyd is viewed as a playmaker with the potential to generate turnovers. Carolina’s defense posted a 22nd‑ranked EPA allowed per dropback and a 26th‑ranked EPA on designed runs the previous season.

If Phillips and Lloyd deliver the impact they promise, the unit could solidify its climb from 32nd in 2024—when the Panthers surrendered the most points in NFL history—to a more respectable standing. Failure to meet expectations, however, would leave the defense vulnerable and could hinder further progress.

What the Rankings Say

ESPN’s anonymous executive panel placed Carolina at No. 24 in its latest starting‑lineup rankings, a marker that reflects both the strides and the shortcomings of the current roster. The running back depth chart sits near the bottom of the league, reinforcing the view that the Panthers need a reliable ground threat to become a true playoff contender. The offensive line’s high rating offers a foundation, but it cannot offset the deficiencies elsewhere.

For fans and analysts, the rankings serve as a reality check, reminding the organization that the 2025 division title does not automatically translate to respectability on the broader stage. The Panthers must address the weakest links to climb higher in future assessments.

Looking Ahead

The Panthers’ recent run of improvement demonstrates the franchise’s capacity for growth, but the path to consistent contention remains uphill. Addressing the running back depth, maintaining defensive progress, and building on the offensive line’s success will be critical priorities for the upcoming offseason. Only by plugging those holes can Carolina hope to move from a surprise playoff team to a sustained contender.

Staying engaged with official Panthers coverage, such as @ThePanthersWire, will keep fans informed as the organization charts its next steps toward becoming a legitimate force in the NFC.