Posted on Mar 10

Panthers sign LB Lloyd to 3-year, $45 million deal after Jaguars decline fifth-year option

Posted Mar 10, 2026

#jaguars #panthers #contract #devin-lloyd

The Carolina Panthers have signed linebacker Devin Lloyd to a three-year, $45 million contract, following his departure from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Why it matters: The addition of Lloyd bolsters the Panthers' defense as they seek to improve their overall performance in the upcoming season.

With $25 million guaranteed, this investment signifies Carolina's commitment to enhancing their defensive unit.
Lloyd’s ability to play both inside and outside linebacker offers the Panthers flexibility in their defensive schemes.

What’s new: After being drafted 27th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Lloyd had a rocky start in Jacksonville but experienced a breakout season in 2025.

In that year, he recorded five interceptions, a fumble recovery, seven pass breakups, ten quarterback hits, and 81 tackles—demonstrating his versatility and playmaking ability.
Notably, he registered a 99-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his athleticism.

By the numbers: Over four seasons with the Jaguars, Lloyd accumulated impressive statistics that underscore his potential impact.

His career totals include 436 tackles, nine interceptions, 3.5 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, 26 pass breakups, and five fumble recoveries.
During his best season, he allowed just one touchdown in coverage, indicating significant improvement in his defensive skills.

Yes, but: Despite these accomplishments, Lloyd faced challenges early in his career, including being benched for fellow rookie Chad Muma at times.

This inconsistency raised questions about his fit within the Jaguars’ defensive scheme, ultimately leading to the decision not to pick up his fifth-year option.

What to watch: As Lloyd transitions to the Panthers, observers should keep an eye on how he adapts to a new defensive system under the Panthers’ coaching staff.

His prior experience is likely to benefit him, especially given that he had the most pass-rush snaps of his career last season with the Jaguars.
The Panthers will aim to leverage his abilities effectively to strengthen their front seven.

The bottom line: Devin Lloyd’s signing represents a strategic move for the Panthers as they look to solidify their defense and build around young talent.

With his proven track record and room for further development, Lloyd could emerge as a cornerstone player in Carolina’s defensive plans going forward.

Panthers sign LB Lloyd to 3-year, $45 million deal after Jaguars decline fifth-year option

Alex Parker

Posted Mar 10, 2026

The Carolina Panthers have signed linebacker Devin Lloyd to a three-year, $45 million contract, following his departure from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Why it matters: The addition of Lloyd bolsters the Panthers' defense as they seek to improve their overall performance in the upcoming season.

With $25 million guaranteed, this investment signifies Carolina's commitment to enhancing their defensive unit.

Lloyd’s ability to play both inside and outside linebacker offers the Panthers flexibility in their defensive schemes.

What’s new: After being drafted 27th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Lloyd had a rocky start in Jacksonville but experienced a breakout season in 2025.

In that year, he recorded five interceptions, a fumble recovery, seven pass breakups, ten quarterback hits, and 81 tackles—demonstrating his versatility and playmaking ability.

Notably, he registered a 99-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his athleticism.

By the numbers: Over four seasons with the Jaguars, Lloyd accumulated impressive statistics that underscore his potential impact.

His career totals include 436 tackles, nine interceptions, 3.5 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, 26 pass breakups, and five fumble recoveries.

During his best season, he allowed just one touchdown in coverage, indicating significant improvement in his defensive skills.

Yes, but: Despite these accomplishments, Lloyd faced challenges early in his career, including being benched for fellow rookie Chad Muma at times.

This inconsistency raised questions about his fit within the Jaguars’ defensive scheme, ultimately leading to the decision not to pick up his fifth-year option.

What to watch: As Lloyd transitions to the Panthers, observers should keep an eye on how he adapts to a new defensive system under the Panthers’ coaching staff.

His prior experience is likely to benefit him, especially given that he had the most pass-rush snaps of his career last season with the Jaguars.

The Panthers will aim to leverage his abilities effectively to strengthen their front seven.

The bottom line: Devin Lloyd’s signing represents a strategic move for the Panthers as they look to solidify their defense and build around young talent.

With his proven track record and room for further development, Lloyd could emerge as a cornerstone player in Carolina’s defensive plans going forward.