Carolina Panthers 2018 full season performance: Defense & special teams

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – DECEMBER 23: Julius Peppers #90 of the Carolina Panthers takes the field against the Atlanta Falcons at Bank of America Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Defensive Line: 78, C+

A+ vs. Cowboys, F at Falcons, A vs. Bengals, C+ vs. Giants
C+ at Redskins, B- at Eagles, B vs. Ravens, B+ vs. Buccaneers
D- at Steelers, D- at Lions, C- vs. Seahawks, C at Buccaneers
B at Browns, A vs. Saints, D+ vs. Falcons, D at Saints

Historically one of the strongest areas of a Carolina Panthers defense, the line struggled to maintain consistency this season. After a magnificent start against the Dallas Cowboys, the ability to pressure quarterbacks dropped significantly.

The line also suffered against opposing rush defenses, giving up large openings on multiple occasions. If not for the stellar play of a star studded linebacker corps the Panthers could have looked just as bad up front as they did in the secondary.

Defensive end Julius Peppers hasn’t committed to continuing his career but would be welcome back in a Panthers uniform for 2019. His leadership and ability to mentor what should be a high draft pick, would aid the team in preparing for the future.

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