Dan Morgan
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Panthers feneral manager Dan Morgan discusses draft strategy at the 2026 NFL Combine.
Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan spent money and draft capital to improve his defensive front. Despite this, the Panthers struggled to mount resistance up front. More specifically, the pass rush and linebackers. ESPN writer David Newton described the need.
“Inside and outside linebacker. Carolina invested heavily in edge rushers last year in free agency and the draft, and yet still ranks near the bottom of the league in sacks and QB pressures. Whether to invest heavily in free agency is the big question. The Panthers’ lack of an inside linebacker who was adept at dropping into coverage was a detriment in 2025, making it a huge need.”
To Newton’s point, the Panthers tallied 93 total pressures, according to Pro Football Reference. That ranks them No. 31 in the league. Now, to his assertion that linebackers need help, look at both positions.
On the inside, Christian Rozeboom’s more prominent statistics outweighed and obscured the deeper ones. For example, while he did make a team-leading 122 tackles, this positive falls apart when looking at two key statistics.
Missing 17 tackles, as Rozeboom did, hurts a defense by allowing the offense to gain more yards. Additionally, those misses can lead to first downs. Rozeboom is not known for his ability to flow to the ball; he struggles with plays that move away from him. As a result, combined with a lack of speed and agility, he cannot make the necessary plays to get the defense off the field.
Next, the lack of athleticism is evident in another area: Rozeboom allowed 51 receptions, ranking second on the team. Opposing teams noticed and targeted the area he patrolled. This did not help the Panthers, as the team struggled to shore up that metaphorical leak. Worse, he allowed the second-highest completion percentage of any starter with at least 15 starts. Rozeboom will enter free agency this week, and the Panthers could benefit from this change.
Leo Chenal Brings a Diverse Set to the Field
Chenal fits what the Panthers need on multiple levels, as he is a linebacker capable of playing both inside and outside. The 25-year-old can do just about everything; he can rush the passer from either the outside or the A gap, and he will make an impact in the run game. With his arm length and burst, he can knife through block attempts.
In a division where each team can feature versatile backs, Chenal is a strong fit. Plus, according to Spotrac, his $4.6 million market value places him among the most affordable linebacker options for the Panthers.
Leo Chenal
GettyPanthers potential free agent target, linebacker Leo Chenal tackles Denver Broncos running back Kenneth Gainwell.
Devin Bush’s Attitude and Big-Play Potential May Signal Shift in Approach
When Morgan played linebacker for the Panthers, he used emotion and skill to make plays. Bush draws from a similar reservoir and uses passion as fuel. He wants to hit every opponent with life-changing force, and he appears comfortable in coverage. In 2025, he led the NFL in both interception return touchdowns and return yardage.
Devin Bush
GettyPotential Panthers free agency target Devin Bush makes a tackle.
While not the largest linebacker at 5’11”, 235 pounds, Bush fights through blocks with brute force and quick hands. Additionally, his strong leverage allows him to stand on blockers and slow the action. He offers this skillset at a higher price point than Chenal, but he would also become the leader of the defense.
DEVIN BUSH 97-YARD PICK SIX! pic.twitter.com/lI7VEVnQg6
— Blue By 90 (@bluebyninety) January 4, 2026
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Morgan must improve the linebacker position. The Panthers need not spend eight figures on one. Chenal or Bush can be signed for under $10 million.