The Carolina Panthers haven’t sniffed the playoffs since 2017 and it has been even longer since the franchise won a playoff game. After sporting arguably the worst defense in the NFL in 2024, the Panthers made several notable changes on that side of the ball. Adding to that, 2023 No. 1 overall pick and quarterback Bryce Young has a head of steam after a strong finish last season. For those taking Carolina lightly in 2025, Panthers star defensive lineman Derrick Brown has a warning: don’t.