Panthers Meet with Historic Tackling Linebacker at Hula Bowl
The Carolina Panthers are focusing on improving their defense.
After a historically bad defensive season, where they allowed the most points in NFL history (partly due to the addition of a 17th game), the Panthers are determined to address their defensive struggles. While the secondary performed decently for much of the season, the overall defense was disappointing.
Heading into the draft and free agency, the Panthers are expected to invest heavily in improving their defense. An early pre-draft visit with a top prospect suggests that GM Dan Morgan and the team are aware of the need for improvement.
Panthers Meet with Iowa Linebacker at Hula Bowl
At the Hula Bowl, Panthers officials met with Nick Jackson, an Iowa linebacker who had an outstanding season, recording nearly 100 tackles, 2.5 sacks, an interception, and seven passes defended. Jackson also finished his college career with the second-most tackles in FBS history. Tackling issues were a major concern for the Panthers last year.
The middle of the Panthers’ defense was particularly problematic. With Shaq Thompson out for the season, Josey Jewell and rookie Trevin Wallace were forced to fill in at linebacker, but both suffered injuries. This led to special teamers and practice squad players stepping in, including Jacoby Windmon and Claudin Cherilus, who also suffered a season-ending injury.
While it’s unlikely the Panthers will face such an injury crisis again, the lack of talent and depth at linebacker was evident last season. With Thompson’s future uncertain, this meeting with Jackson makes a lot of sense for the Panthers.
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