3 realistic goals for the Carolina Panthers defense in 2022
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers’ run defense makes major improvements
Derrick Brown’s development going into his third year is crucial for the Carolina Panthers in terms of improving their run defense. The addition of Matt Ioannidis for extra help on the interior will help in the run games as well, but the former No. 7 overall selection out of Auburn must achieve Pro Bowl-caliber production when the team needs it most.
Damien Wilson and Cory Littleton in the linebacking room provide the Panthers with more depth. Even if the days of Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis remain sorely missed.
With run defense being a focus over the offseason going into training camp, the Panthers will be ready to right the ship in Week 1 against Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. This will be a great test to see how far the Panthers have come over the offseason following the departures of DaQuan Jones, Morgan Fox, and Jermaine Carter.
The run defense in 2022 should improve based on the personnel available. Just how much is another matter entirely.
Shaq Thompson and Frankie Luvu boast experience and energy in equal measure, which should help if the defensive line struggles. Hopes are also high that rookie Brandon Smith can make his presence felt on the rotation.
The pass defense is solid right now, but the run defense has been leaky. Hopefully, progression has been accomplished enough for this to eventually be an area of strength.