The frequency of the transactions has lessoned as free agency progresses, but Dan Morgan and company are still making effective strides. Here’s a recap of day three.
RB2
The Panthers’ most impactful move of the day was agreeing to terms with former Cowboys’ running back Rico Dowdle. Dowdle, a five year veteran out of the University of South Carolina, finished the 2024 season with over 1,300 all purpose yards (1079 rushing and 249 receiving).
With the acquisition of Dowdle, the Panthers now have two running backs who finished in the top 12 in total rushing yards (Chuba Hubbard 1175/Rico Dowdle 1079). Carolina has had success in the past with dual rushing attacks, with Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster, and most notably Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams, who both rushed for over 1100 yards in 2009.
The hope is that they’ll be able to recreate that magic behind an offensive line built to run the ball and therefore opening up the field for Bryce Young and the wide receivers. If it works, this could be one of the Panthers’ most important offseason moves.
The Return
Wide receiver Adam Thielen will return. The twelve year veteran had been mulling retirement, but decided to run it back one more year in Carolina. Thielen has been an integral part of Bryce Young’s development, turning into a safety net for the 3rd year signal caller based on his reliable hands and consistency on third down. The Panthers are reportedly reworking Adam’s existing contract.
Linebacker Help
Carolina added depth to their linebacker corps with the addition of former LA Ram Christian Rozeboom. Rozeboom played in all 17 games for the Rams in 2024 – finishing with a career high 135 tackles, one sack and one interception.
When asked, his teammate in Los Angeles and now Carolina – Bobby Brown – called the six year vet a “Real Baller.”
The Panthers roster is taking shape. Expect Dan Morgan to make a few more deals before they begin to focus on next month’s draft.
Panthers Free Agency Day Three Recap