The Carolina Panthers and Tennessee Titans were two of the most aggressive teams in the NFL last offseason. One year later on the eve of NFL free agency, both clubs are reportedly going to be competing for the same highly-coveted free agent.
In 2024, Carolina overhauled its offensive line with the additions of guards Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt. The team also addressed its defense, adding edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney and linebacker Josey Jewell. Meanwhile, Tennessee signed Calvin Ridley while signing Tony Pollard, Lloyd Cushenberry and Kenneth Murray Jr.
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However, the additions did little to yield significant improvements defensively. As a result, the latest NFL rumors are shedding light on one top defender Tennessee and Carolina could both aggressively pursue.
According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, the Panthers and Titans are expected to be involved in the bidding war for Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland.
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Holland, only 25 years old, was one of the top free safeties in the NFL over his first three seasons. He recorded 21 pass deflections with 5 interceptions and 4 forced fumbles in his first three years. However, Holland’s effectiveness and range dipped this past year following a knee injury in 2023. Still, talent evaluators believe he can still be a high-end playmaker for years to come.
Miami wants Holland back, but the bidding war for his services might change that. Wolfe shared that Holland’s next deal will eclipse $15 million per year but it could get close to $20 million annually. If other clubs start offering him $19-plus million annually, it might be out of the Dolphins’ price range for re-signing him.
Carolina is also in the market for defensive line help, with defensive tackle Milton Williams and edge rusher Chase Young. Meanwhile, per Titans’ reporter Buck Reising of A to Z Sports, Tennessee has interest in free-agent quarterbacks Zach Wilson and Mac Jones as potential backup options for the 2025 season.
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