Panthers see early returns from Devin Lloyd's free-agent signing
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 28, 2026, 8:30 PM
Last updated Oct 28, 2026

The Carolina Panthers are benefiting from the performance of linebacker Devin Lloyd, their major offseason acquisition. As of Week 7, Lloyd has contributed significantly with 39 tackles, two sacks, two interceptions, and a defensive touchdown over five games. His play has solidified him as a key player despite concerns about his transition from Jacksonville. Meanwhile, edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, another high-profile signing, has yet to meet expectations with a Pro Football Focus grade of 68.5, leaving room for improvement as the season progresses.
- •Lloyd signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Panthers.
- •He missed Week 3 but has excelled in five appearances.
- •Phillips has not justified his contract with his current performance grade.
- •Lloyd has achieved a 56.2 passer rating allowed in coverage.
- •Panthers' defense remains inconsistent despite individual successes.
- 8:30 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN: Panthers' big free-agent pickup 'well worth' the price
"The Panthers are already getting a return on investment from one of their big-money signings in 2026.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 7:31 PMMatthew Golden listed as questionable
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 7:30 PMYour 2026 NFL Week 8 announcing schedule
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 7:12 PMWeek 8 injury report for Panthers
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 6:30 PMBryce Young cleared to play in Week 8
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 5:09 PMRams called good trade fit for this former L.A. big man
NFL•Oct 28, 2026, 1:03 PMWill injury force Packers to finally start Kevin Zeitler?
