Carolina Panthers defense: Mid-year performance analysis

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 04: Luke Kuechly #59 and teammate Donte Jackson #26 of the Carolina Panthers react against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Carolina Panthers

CHARLOTTE, NC – NOVEMBER 04: Mario Addison #97 of the Carolina Panthers sacks Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Defensive Line: 83, B

A+ vs. Cowboys, F at Falcons, A vs. Bengals, C+ vs. Giants
C+ at Redskins, B- at Eagles, B vs. Ravens, B+ vs. Buccaneers

The slow start in terms of sacks and pressure for the defensive line signaled concern for many across the Panthers fan base but both numbers have increased over the recent weeks. Defensive end Mario Addison registered three sacks of Buccaneers quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in the latest contest as this unit continues to apply pressure.

In the middle, a rotation consisting of Dontari Poe, Vernon Butler, Kawann Short and Kyle Love continues in addition to the defensive ends constantly changing. Washington wants to keep a fresh pass-rusher on the field at all times and everyone at this position is being relied upon to produce.

Veteran defensive end Julius Peppers has just two sacks through eight games but continues to be a dominant force when on the field.

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