On Wednesday, the Carolina Panthers made another move to strengthen their league-worst defense by signing former Los Angeles Rams linebacker Christian Rozeboom to a one-year contract. Rozeboom entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021, initially joining the Rams before a brief stint on the Chiefs’ practice squad. He later returned to Los Angeles, where he secured a spot on the active roster and developed into a reliable contributor. Last season, he recorded a career-high 135 tackles, making him a valuable depth addition for Carolina.
The Panthers, who finished 5-12 last season under first-year head coach Dave Canales, hold the eighth pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Their defense struggled significantly, but the team has been aggressive in addressing those issues. Re-signing cornerback Jaycee Horn was a key first step, followed by the acquisitions of Tre’von Moehrig, Pat Jones II, Bobby Brown III, Tershawn Wharton, and now Rozeboom. Additionally, with Derrick Brown returning to full health, the Panthers’ defensive line could emerge as one of the NFC’s stronger units.
Meanwhile, quarterback Bryce Young, who reclaimed the starting job, has begun to show flashes of the talent he displayed at Alabama and will look to build on that progress. With an active free agency approach and a commitment to improving the roster, Carolina appears determined to compete for the NFC South this season.