The Carolina Panthers face a critical offseason as questions swirl around Ickey Ekwonu’s injury and the team’s offensive line. Can Dan Morgan and Dave Canales rebuild the foundation while securing key free agents? The pressure is on to address a long-standing pass-rush deficiency and strengthen the linebacker corps, with names like Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen showing promise, but more talent clearly being needed.

Julian Council analyzes how much extra help Bryce Young needs at wide receiver and tight end to compete in the NFC South, and whether keeping the play-calling duties is the right decision for Canales. With the Panthers aiming for a playoff spot, are they ready to make the bold investments and roster moves required to reach their goals? Tune in for this offseason preview that sets the stage for Carolina’s most important season yet.

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DripDrop

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Ultimate QB

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FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. FanDuel is officially in Playoff Mode. Every game day during the NFL playoffs, FanDuel is giving customers even more ways to get in on the action. Visit Fanduel.com to get started.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

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Gametime

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Robinhood

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Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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In just over two weeks, the Carolina Panthers will draft what they hope to be their next franchise quarterback. But does that role involve more than just the on-field aspect? For a time, Cam Newton was the embodiment of Charlotte, NC, and the face of the city. Is there a prospect that could fulfill that same role that Newton played? Julian Council answers that among other listener questions in this week's edition of the Weekly Friday Mailbag.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Carolina Panthers continued their strong start to free agency with the additions of former Philadelphia Eagles RB Miles Sanders and former Denver Broncos DT DeShawn Williams. Julian Council breaks down the contract terms and how each fits into Carolina's offensive and defensive schemes.

A week after trading away DJ Moore in a trade that yielded Carolina the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Panthers now find themselves in the market for wide receivers. Is there a veteran option that Carolina could or should trade for prior to the draft? Julian Council answers this question among other listener questions on this week's edition of the Weekly Friday Mailbag.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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It's no secret that the Panthers are looking to find a long-term answer at QB this offseason. But could there already be one on the roster? Should the Panthers give Corral a shot and target the best player available in the draft? Julian Council answers this question among others in this edition of the Weekly Friday Mailbag.

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The Carolina Panthers face a crucial offseason as front office decisions become critical for Bryce Young, Ickey Ekwonu, and the team’s playoff hopes. Will key contract extensions and smart free agency moves strengthen the core, or is a major roster overhaul approaching? Julian Council outlines essential tasks for GM Dan Morgan, including Bryce Young’s fifth-year option, Ickey Ekwonu’s extension despite injury, and Jalen Coker’s future at wide receiver.

Important priorities include adding veteran edge rushers, finding a starting left tackle to replace Ekwonu, and bringing in experienced leadership at wide receiver behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker. The Panthers draft plans are under scrutiny—will they focus on a cornerstone linebacker, a dependable center, or depth for the offensive line? With limited salary cap space and division rivals improving, every decision could shape Carolina’s future. Can the Panthers elevate from contenders to a true NFC powerhouse?

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

TurboTax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

DripDrop

Right now, DripDrop is offering podcast listeners 20% off your first order. Go to http://dripdrop.com and use promo code lockedonnfl.

Ultimate QB

Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. FanDuel is officially in Playoff Mode. Every game day during the NFL playoffs, FanDuel is giving customers even more ways to get in on the action. Visit Fanduel.com to get started.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNFL

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

Robinhood

Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.

Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Carolina Panthers surge to the NFC South title after a decade-long drought, but can they build on their playoff promise with key offseason moves ahead? Julian Council reviews his preseason predictions, balancing successes and failures while examining key questions for Bryce Young, Tetairoa McMillan, and the Panthers' rushing game.

Analyzing standout rookie performances like McMillan’s record-breaking season and evaluating defensive improvements, Julian Council highlights roster decisions—from Adam Thielen’s early trade to the futures of edge rushers Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen. Topics include injuries to the offensive line, the prospects for Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle, and the coaching staff’s influence on development. Focusing on turnover margin, playoff experience, and Bryce Young’s progress, this episode outlines Carolina’s offseason plan. Will the young core of the Panthers rise to meet the organization's new standards?

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

TurboTax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

DripDrop

Right now, DripDrop is offering podcast listeners 20% off your first order. Go to http://dripdrop.com and use promo code lockedonnfl.

Ultimate QB

Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. FanDuel is officially in Playoff Mode. Every game day during the NFL playoffs, FanDuel is giving customers even more ways to get in on the action. Visit Fanduel.com to get started.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNFL

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

Robinhood

Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.

Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carolina Panthers ignite debate as Ejiro Evero returns as defensive coordinator—are fans overreacting, or is maintaining continuity the key to revitalizing the defense? Julian Council examines Evero’s controversial re-signing and the organization’s “secret” extension, breaking down significant improvements from a historically weak defensive unit to a more respectable middle-of-the-pack. Listener questions from around the world spark a lively discussion about scheme fit, offseason roster needs, and whether another draft and free agency can elevate Carolina’s defense to the NFL’s elite.

Key topics include the potential acquisition of Raiders star Maxx Crosby, the effects of Ikem Ekwonu’s injury and contract on the Panthers’ salary cap, and whether head coach Dave Canales should keep playcalling duties to support Bryce Young’s development. With detailed cap analysis, offseason strategies, and outlooks on NFC South rivals, this episode prepares for a crucial Panthers offseason. Will Carolina’s focus on continuity finally succeed, or are more major changes on the horizon?

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Ultimate QB

Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. FanDuel is officially in Playoff Mode. Every game day during the NFL playoffs, FanDuel is giving customers even more ways to get in on the action. Visit Fanduel.com to get started.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNFL

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

Robinhood

Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.

Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnfl.

Gusto

Try Gusto today at http://gusto.com/lockedonNFL and get three months free when you run your first payroll.

Home Chef

For a limited time, Home Chef is offering my listeners 50% off your first box, free shipping, and free dessert for life. Just go to http://HomeChef.com/LOCKEDON.

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Carolina Panthers adopt a “win now” mentality as Dan Morgan outlines an aggressive yet disciplined offseason plan. With the NFC South title fueling new playoff hopes, questions arise about major contract decisions for players like Ikem Ekwonu and Mike Jackson, as well as the running back rotation, including Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle, and Jonathon Brooks. How will Dave Canales’ evolving culture and Morgan’s strategic player moves influence the Panthers' 2026 goals?

Julian Council analyzes the Panthers' changing approach—covering Morgan’s stance on roster building, emphasis on veteran talent, and upcoming extension talks for rising stars like Jalen Coker. Key topics include the effect of Ekwonu’s injury on the offensive line, potential draft directions with pick No. 19, and the need to maintain depth at quarterback and receiver. Examine every aspect of Carolina’s critical offseason to understand what is needed to keep the Panthers competitive in the playoffs.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Ultimate QB

Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. FanDuel is officially in Playoff Mode. Every game day during the NFL playoffs, FanDuel is giving customers even more ways to get in on the action. Visit Fanduel.com to get started.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNFL

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

Robinhood

Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.

Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnfl.

Gusto

Try Gusto today at http://gusto.com/lockedonNFL and get three months free when you run your first payroll.

Home Chef

For a limited time, Home Chef is offering my listeners 50% off your first box, free shipping, and free dessert for life. Just go to http://HomeChef.com/LOCKEDON.

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.