On April 1, 2025, the Panthers re-signed running back Raheem Blackshear to a one-year contract. Blackshear, who joined the Panthers in September 2022 after being signed off the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad, has been a versatile contributor. He scored his first NFL touchdown on November 6, 2022, against the Cincinnati Bengals and has been involved in both rushing and special teams duties. In the 2023 season, he appeared in 12 games, demonstrating his value as a reliable team member.
**Contract Extension for Cornerback Jaycee Horn**
In March 2025, the Panthers secured a significant commitment from cornerback Jaycee Horn by signing him to a four-year extension worth $100 million. This deal makes Horn the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history, surpassing previous contracts held by players like Jalen Ramsey and Patrick Surtain II. Horn, a first-round pick in 2021 from the University of South Carolina, has been a standout performer, earning his first Pro Bowl selection in the past season. Over 37 career games, he has recorded five interceptions and 26 passes defended. The Panthers prioritized retaining Horn to bolster a defense that faced challenges in the 2024 season.
**Reserve/Future Contracts**
The Panthers have also been proactive in signing players to reserve/future contracts, aiming to build depth and competition within the team:
– **Carlos “Boogie” Basham**: On January 21, 2025, the Panthers signed outside linebacker Carlos Basham to a reserve/future contract. Basham, a second-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2021, brings experience and potential to Carolina’s defense. Over 40 career games, he has accumulated 57 total tackles, six tackles for loss, nine quarterback hits, and 4.5 sacks. His addition is expected to enhance the Panthers’ pass rush, addressing a critical area of need.
– **James Mitchell**: The Panthers also added tight end James Mitchell on January 21, 2025. Mitchell, previously with the Detroit Lions, has appeared in 30 career games, recording 13 receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. At 6-foot-4 and 246 pounds, the Virginia Tech product offers size and athleticism to the Panthers’ tight end group. His collegiate career included 52 receptions for 838 yards and seven touchdowns, along with five rushing scores, showcasing his versatility.
– **Emani Bailey**: Running back Emani Bailey joined the Panthers’ practice squad on December 3, 2024, and signed a reserve/future contract on January 6, 2025. Bailey’s addition provides depth to the running back position and an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during training camp.
**Draft Preparations and Speculations**
Looking ahead, the Panthers hold the eighth overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Various mock drafts have speculated on the team’s potential selections:
– **Jihaad Campbell**: In SB Nation’s 2025 Community Mock Draft, the Panthers selected Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell with the eighth overall pick. Campbell is praised for his versatility and fit within defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 hybrid scheme. His collegiate performance included 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, and an interception, indicating his potential impact on the Panthers’ defense.
– **Will Johnson**: Another mock draft projected the Panthers selecting cornerback Will Johnson from the University of Michigan. Johnson is noted for his strong coverage skills and ball-hawking ability, which could significantly enhance the Panthers’ secondary when paired with Jaycee Horn.
These projections highlight the Panthers’ focus on strengthening their defense through the draft, aiming to address areas that were problematic in the previous season.