Lloyd proved to be a versatile playmaker during the 2025 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 15 games, the 27-year-old recorded 81 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery, five interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and seven defended passes. His five interceptions tied for the second-most in the league that year, and he made a memorable 99-yard pick-six on a punt play against Patrick Mahomes on Monday Night Football in Week 5, making a substantial impact in 2025.
Lloyd is a former first-round pick from the University of Utah, selected in 2022. In rankings tallied by coaches, executives, and scouts, he was listed as a top-10 linebacker. He stood out in 2025 as a 2022 draft pick who elevated his game right before free agency. He is noted as the only NFL player that season to record five interceptions and five tackles for loss, a feat last accomplished by Shaquille Leonard in 2019. Lloyd also returned those five picks for a total of 135 yards. After the season, he signed a three-year deal with Carolina.
Looking ahead to 2026, there is attention on how Lloyd will handle a lead role. In Jacksonville, veteran communicator Foyesade Oluokun often directed the defense, but the Panthers have shown strong confidence in Lloyd’s leadership during offseason workouts.
The Panthers have also added a significant edge rush presence to bolster the defense. A prominent addition was Jaelan Phillips, who signed a four-year, $120 million contract. Phillips had previously built a reputation as one of the top edge rushers available in this year’s free agency class. He enters his sixth NFL season and brings a track record of productive pass rushing. He had 26 sacks across 55 games before being traded to a new team for a 2026 third-round pick, a move that reunited him with a defensive coordinator familiar with his strengths. Phillips is expected to bring a high level of disruption to opposing offenses.
Another veteran move for the defense was the return of cornerback Jaycee Horn. Horn has previously delivered strong play and earned a Pro Bowl nod in recognition of his coverage skills, contributing to a defense that is now better equipped to create turnovers and pressure opposing quarterbacks.
In the 2025 season, the Panthers ranked 16th in total defense. They were 20th against the run and 15th against the pass. The additions of Lloyd, Phillips, and Horn are part of an effort to elevate the unit to a more disruptive, ball-hawking style that can better sustain success on defense while supporting the offense in a bid for a playoff return.
Overall, the Panthers are aiming to maximize defensive versatility and leadership to complement their offensive schemes. With Lloyd expected to take on a lead role, a premier edge rusher added to the lineup, and a renewed secondary, Carolina is positioning itself to be a more formidable challenge on that side of the ball in the upcoming season.
