The Carolina Panthers are expecting big things from linebacker Devin Lloyd during his first season with the franchise. And one understated move by those in power gave the second-level enforcer priceless validation.
Lloyd was named among the Panthers' captains for the 2026 campaign. Quarterback Bryce Young, running back Chuba Hubbard, defensive lineman Derrick Brown, and long-snapper J.J. Jansen were the others, so for the free-agent signing to get the prestigious distinction over others is pretty telling.
He was selected over the likes of cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr, edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, and safety Tre'von Moehrig. And as the quarterback of Carolina's defense this season, it's another signal of how much confidence there is in Lloyd to deliver the goods.
Carolina Panthers making Devin Lloyd a team captain for 2026 is very telling
It's a responsibility he's taking seriously.
The former Utah standout wasted no time in making his presence felt this offseason, blowing everyone away with his forceful approach and elite-level athleticism.
Lloyd completely changed the dynamic at the defensive second level through actions and communication. He's the 'green dot' play-caller on defense, picking up coordinator Ejiro Evero's complex 3-4 scheme quickly. And now, he's been rewarded for his outstanding early efforts with a captain's badge.
That will be nice for Lloyd. But it doesn't change much in the grand scheme of things.
Captain or not, Lloyd will lead from the front. He doesn't know how to do anything else, and his second-team All-Pro campaign with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season indicates his self-confidence has never been higher.
Considering the Panthers managed to secure Lloyd's services for much less than his projected market value, this has the makings of a potential steal.
Devin Lloyd must become the tone-setter Carolina Panthers' linebacking unit needs
It's been a long time since the Panthers have had a legitimate tone-setter in the middle of their defense. Luke Kuechly was the last, and he's now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It's been a constant stream of failed free-agent signings and draft picks ever since, which eventually led Carolina to Lloyd.
And while it's still early days without a regular-season snap to evaluate, the signs are immensely encouraging.
The hard work is just getting started for Lloyd. He got paid in free agency, but there are still doubters to silence and a new team to impress.
Some believe Lloyd's contract-year surge in Jacksonville was a flash in the pan. It's not uncommon for a player to give a little more effort when urgency is raised, and money is on the line.
That might be true, but the Panthers believe last season's breakout is the start of great things for Lloyd.
And general manager Dan Morgan put the team's money where his mouth is.
Becoming a captain is an honor for any player. But for Lloyd, it just confirms his importance to Carolina's ambition to take the next step this season.
Let's hope Carolina's faith is repaid.
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