The Carolina Panthers have unveiled the latest installment of Panthers Blueprint, a behind-the-scenes docuseries produced by Panthers Media that gives fans an inside look at the team’s ongoing effort to reshape its identity heading into the 2025 season. Now four episodes in, which spans pre-draft evaluations to post-draft strategy. This latest episode focuses on the Panthers' free agency moves and the foundation being laid by the new leadership trio: GM Dan Morgan, head coach Dave Canales, and executive VP of football operations Brandt Tilis.
This episode spotlights several key offseason additions: defensive linemen Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III, safety Tre’von Moehrig, and running back Rico Dowdle. Each move reflects a broader commitment to culture, competition, and cohesion.
Key Free Agent Signings
Tershawn Wharton joins Carolina after a strong tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. A high-motor interior lineman with Super Bowl experience, Wharton was brought in not just for his production, but also for the winning mindset he brings to the locker room. Known for his explosiveness and versatility, he fits well into Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 defensive scheme. His ability to pressure the quarterback and play across multiple fronts gives the Panthers a valuable piece up front.
Tre’von Moehrig, formerly with the Las Vegas Raiders, addresses a major hole in the Panthers’ secondary. While the team drafted safety Lathan Ransom out of Ohio State, Moehrig adds proven experience and physicality to the back end. Praised for his ability to stop the run and read the field, he offers more than just coverage skills, he also brings leadership and grit to a defense looking to turn the corner.
Bobby Brown III, a former Los Angeles Ram, adds much-needed bulk and toughness to the defensive interior. At 6'4" and over 320 pounds, Brown is a true run-stopper, something the Panthers lacked in 2024. Still just 24 years old, Brown is entering his prime and could be a long-term fixture in Evero’s scheme. Canales and Morgan emphasized that stopping the run was a major priority this offseason, and Brown’s signing is a step directly aligned with that goal.
Rico Dowdle joins the backfield after a productive season in Dallas. Paired with Chuba Hubbard, who also topped 1,000 rushing yards last year, Dowdle gives the Panthers a reliable one-two punch. Known for his power and downhill style, Dowdle also brings creativity, even suggesting reviving the Wildcat formation. His physicality makes him a natural fit for short-yardage and red-zone situations, areas where the team struggled last season.
Dave Canales coaching turnaround.
Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales with Ian Thomas (80) in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium.
© Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Building a New Identity
The episode also provides deeper insight into the vision held by the Panthers’ leadership. Dan Morgan spoke candidly about his mission to challenge the roster and eliminate the “laughingstock" label that has hovered over the franchise. With Canales and Tilis, Morgan is determined to build a culture of accountability and growth. Their approach centers on adding competitive, high-character players who elevate those around them, both on and off the field.
A clear example of this vision is the Panthers’ decision to invest in cornerback Jaycee Horn, rewarding him with a significant contract extension. Coach Canales noted that Horn plays with swagger and intensity, while Horn himself reiterated his ultimate goal: bringing a Super Bowl to Carolina. He acknowledged that it starts with winning the division and playoff games, step by step.
Another major storyline addressed in the episode was the team’s continued commitment to quarterback Bryce Young. Morgan and Canales made it clear that Young is their starter going forward, pointing to his strong finish in 2024. They’re confident that with improved protection, playmakers, and coaching, Young can take a major step forward in Year 2 under Canales.
Lastly, Brandt Tilis openly stated what many already knew, that the Panthers struggled mightily to stop the run in 2024. That vulnerability shaped their offseason priorities. Retaining Evero and involving him in personnel decisions has allowed the team to stay aligned defensively. His 3-4 system relies on smart, physical defenders, and the team is clearly investing to make that system work.