Carolina Panthers' offseason heats up June 2025 with Jalen Ramsey trade buzz! Could he switch to safety? Plus, injury updates on Brown & Jewell. Read more!
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Friday brought a fresh wave of excitement for Panthers fans as speculation intensified around a potential blockbuster trade for Jalen Ramsey. Reports suggest the All-Pro cornerback could be heading to Carolina, with a fascinating twist: a potential move to safety. This, coupled with impressive OTA performances and intriguing draft insights, paints a picture of a team aggressively reshaping its future.
His absence was felt significantly last season as the Panthers defense allowed the most total yards and rushing yards in the league.
The biggest news of the day revolves around Jalen Ramsey. At 30, a transition to safety could not only extend his illustrious career but also provide the Panthers' secondary with an elite playmaker and invaluable veteran leadership. Imagine Ramsey, a proven ballhawk, paired with newly acquired Tre'von Moehrig – that's a duo that could transform Carolina's defensive backfield. This move signals the front office's commitment to bolstering a defense that desperately needs star power, especially considering the ongoing recovery of key players.
Speaking of recoveries, the Panthers' injury report remains lengthy as they head towards Week 1. Key contributors like Derrick Brown (knee), Josey Jewell (concussion), A'Shawn Robinson (calf), Austin Corbett (biceps), and DJ Wonnum (back) are among a dozen players listed as questionable for the opener against Jacksonville. Brown's return is particularly critical. After a Pro Bowl 2023 season where he tallied 103 tackles, his absence in 2024 was glaring as the defense struggled mightily, especially against the run. Getting him back to full strength is paramount.
On the offensive side, there's fantastic news coming out of OTAs regarding guard Damien Lewis. Acquired from Seattle, Lewis is reportedly exceeding expectations and silencing critics. He's been a dominant force in practice, solidifying an offensive line that was a major weakness last season. His emergence as an elite guard is a massive boost for the entire offense, promising better protection for the quarterback and improved running lanes.
The team's commitment to building a potent offense was further highlighted by newly released footage from the 2025 NFL Draft. It revealed that the Panthers turned down a 'substantial' trade offer from the Los Angeles Rams for their No. 8 overall pick. Instead, Carolina stuck to their guns and selected Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. The 6'5" pass-catcher is envisioned as a true deep threat, a vital piece for a rebuilding offense. The footage showed EVP of Football Operations Brandt Tilis handling negotiations before GM Dan Morgan made the call to welcome McMillan.
The positive vibes extend beyond individual performances. Recently released OTA practice highlights, courtesy of media member Chris Jenkins, showcased the team's energy and development during June workouts. This glimpse is particularly valuable with practices closed to fans this year. Furthermore, an NFL analyst has recognized the Panthers' offseason efforts, naming them among the league's most improved teams for 2025. After years without a winning record, additions like McMillan and Lewis are fueling hope that Carolina is finally turning a corner.
While the injury list remains a concern, the overall feeling heading into the summer is one of cautious optimism. With potential game-changers like Ramsey being discussed, a revamped offensive line, and exciting new offensive weapons, the Panthers are laying the groundwork for a much-anticipated turnaround. All eyes will be on training camp to see how these pieces come together before the Week 1 showdown in Jacksonville.
