The Carolina Panthers are looking to build off a successful season that included an NFC South title and playoff appearance and adding the right free agents can help take this team to the next level.

Already the Panthers are being linked to top edge rushers and linebackers set to hit the open market to revamp the defense with Ejiro Evero now expected to return. Improving that unit is a must while the offense led by quarterback Bryce Young and head coach Dave Canales continue to grow.

While the defensive line and linebacker positions can use a top-level upgrade, the secondary showed some real promise last season under Jonathan Cooley’s watch. Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and Trevon Moehrig all had great statistical seasons but that shouldn’t stop the Panthers from bolstering the secondary even more with some value additions.

Panthers linked to two free agent cornerbacks heading into free agency

While Horn, Jackson and Moehrig played great, the Panthers will still need to improve the depth in the secondary with Nick Scott, Damarri Mathis, and Akayleb Evans set to hit free agency. The Panthers already have a safety replacement ready for the next step in Lathan Ransom but improving the depth at the cornerback position will be key.

Which is why the Panthers were linked as the best fit for two cornerbacks in A to Z Sports’ free agent cornerback rankings.

Eric Stokes

The former Green Bay Packers’ first-round pick back in 2021 has starting experience with 48 starts under his belt and is coming off his best season after signing a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. Stokes allowed a 77.2 passer rating in coverage with only one touchdown allowed.

After playing on a one-year, $4 million contract, Stokes looks like a value free agent but he could turn that successful season into a big payday considering he’s only 27-years-old. It might be more than the Panthers are willing to pay for a CB3 on the outside but still a name worth watching on the market.

Rasul Douglas

This is a name that really stands out for the Panthers and one fans might remember. Douglas started 11 games for Carolina back in 2020 before really breaking out with the Green Bay Packers. Since then, he’s played with the Buffalo Bills and most recently the Miami Dolphins.

Douglas signed with Miami on a one-year, $1.57 million deal and went on to start 13 games allowing a 72.6 passer rating in coverage with three touchdowns allowed and two interceptions. Given his age (31-years-old at the start of the 2026 season), Douglas can be a cheap veteran option for any team. He’s also great against the run and at tackling, two areas the Panthers can improve at on the outside.

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