The Carolina Panthers had high hopes after drafting quarterback Bryce Young with the No. 1 overall pick in 2023, but a year later, the team’s struggles continued. They finished the 2024 season with a disappointing 5-12 record, barely avoiding last place in the NFC South thanks to a tiebreaker over the New Orleans Saints.
While the offense was inconsistent, whether led by Young or veteran Andy Dalton, the real disaster was on defense. Under second-year defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, Carolina’s defense was one of the worst in the league, allowing an average of 404.5 yards and 31.4 points per game—both the highest in the NFL.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, the Panthers must make serious upgrades if they want to compete for a playoff spot. One area in desperate need of reinforcements is the secondary, and free-agent safety Julian Blackmon could be the perfect fit.
Blackmon, 26, played college football at Utah and was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He quickly earned a starting role and has been a consistent presence in the league, missing significant time only in 2021 due to an Achilles injury. Over his five-year career, he has played in 66 games, tallying 300 tackles, 10 interceptions, and 21 passes defensed.
Why Blackmon makes sense for Carolina
Last season, Blackmon proved he’s still a valuable defender. Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded him 69.3 overall, ranking 48th among 171 NFL safeties. He stood out in pass coverage (73.5 grade, 23rd best) and as a pass rusher (69.4 grade, 23rd best), though his run defense (55.1 grade) left room for improvement.
With Carolina already investing in cornerback Jaycee Horn through a major contract extension, adding Blackmon would solidify the back end of their defense. According to Spotrac, he is projected to receive a three-year, $24 million contract—an affordable price for a team desperate for defensive upgrades.
If the Panthers want to break out of their slump and give Bryce Young a chance to succeed, fixing the defense should be a top priority. Blackmon could be a key piece in that transformation.
