panthers rumors
panthers rumors
Multiple NFL teams are reaching out to Carolina in the latest Panthers rumors that could soon intensify with days left before the league’s trade deadline. According to The Athletic’s Joseph Person, former first-round pick Derrick Brown is receiving major interest, but the Panthers prefer to retain the defensive tackle. Originally selected in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Auburn product finished the 2025 season with five sacks, 33 solo tackles and one forced fumble. The former first-rounder became a staple in the Panthers’ defense, earning himself a four-year deal worth $96 million, which keeps him with the team through the 2028 season.
The Panthers’ defensive tackle has not recorded a sack, but remains a key contributor. Despite acquiring LBs Devin Lloyd and Jaelan Phillips, there’s no question why they prefer to keep the Auburn product. The former first-rounder wasn’t the only defensive tackle who drew trade interest. Former fourth-round pick Bobby Brown was a trade candidate before the 2026 season, and if the Panthers drop to 3-5, they could be interested in dealing him.
If teams want Derrick, they’d probably need to offer an astronomical offer for the 2023 Pro Bowler. Realistically, teams could still get something from the Panthers, but it’d probably need to be the former fourth-rounder. That said, the Auburn product is still available.
panthers rumors
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) is tackled by, from left, Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Derrick Brown (95), Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Marquan McCall (78) and Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns (53) during a designed quarterback sneak in the second quarter during a Week 9 NFL game, Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. Mandatory Credit: Albert Cesare-The Enquirer Nfl Carolina Panthers At Cincinnati Bengals
Panthers Rumors: $96M Superstar Drawing Massive Trade Suitors
Potential Exclusive Trade Value
The 28-year-old is in the prime of his career, but do the Panthers finally have the answers to make an NFC Championship appearance? That’s up for debate in the comments, but Carolina is closing in on a Bryce Young extension. The Panthers may feel they have the right pieces on both sides of the ball. However, their next three regular-season games will determine that.
The defensive tackle will turn 29-years-old next year and will be in his 30s once his contract is over. Carolina won’t gain much if traded later, but teams offering a second- or third-round pick could help move the former first-rounder.
This is only hypothetical, as the Panthers aren’t interested in trading him, but don’t be shocked if he’s moved if it means a premium wide receiver in return or a 2027 first-round pick. After all, Panthers WR Xavier Legette remains a trade candidate this season. However, these three teams are likely interested in the defensive tackle.
panthers rumors
Jun 9, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Derrick Brown (95) during th first day of mini camp at Bank of America Stadium practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Potential Trade Destinations:
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys could be interested in trading DT Kenny Clark. The Cowboys originally acquired the former Green Bay Packer in a trade that sent away Micah Parsons. While the Cowboys need a premium pass-rusher, they could upgrade their defensive line alongside Quinnen Williams, who signed a blockbuster deal before the 2026 season.
The Cowboys signed Otito Ogbonnia in free agency after trading away Osa Odighizuwa to San Francisco. It hasn’t gone as Dallas planned, so trading for Brown might be sensible if they offer Clark and a 2027 second-round pick.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The 6-2 Jacksonville Jaguars are on fire in a less competitive AFC South. However, they haven’t had the best postseason success under head coach Liam Coen, losing in the wild-card round. While veteran defensive tackle Arik Armstead was considered a trade candidate this past offseason, the Jaguars retained him. The Jaguars aren’t replacing Armstead, but they could use another premium defensive tackle.
Perhaps Brown could find a role in the defensive line and pair with Armstead to help the Jaguars reach the AFC Championship.
New York Giants
Ultimately, the New York Giants are pushing hard for a defensive tackle. Reportedly, they’ve made contact with several defensive tackles, with one name that comes to mind: Tampa Bay Buccaneers DT Vita Vea. The Giants haven’t made contact with him, but after failing to acquire former Tennessee Titans DT Jeffrey Simmons, the team could trade for Brown. New York has options, but striking a deal with the Panthers for a second-round pick may make sense.