Devin Lloyd Joins Carolina Panthers After Breakout Season with Jaguars

Linebacker Devin Lloyd has officially signed with the Carolina Panthers, marking the end of his four-year stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The move comes after a 2025 season that saw Lloyd earn Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors, significantly increasing his market value.

From Jaguars First-Round Pick to Panthers Free Agent

Lloyd was originally drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, after the team traded up to secure the 27th overall pick . He quickly became a full-time starter, playing in 63 games (61 starts) and accumulating 436 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, 9 interceptions, and 26 pass deflections throughout his career with the Jaguars .

2025 Breakout Season and Free Agency

The 2025 season proved to be a turning point for Lloyd, as he established himself as one of the league’s top linebackers. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro recognition . However, the Jaguars’ tight salary cap situation made retaining him challenging.

Lloyd signed a three-year, $45 million deal with the Carolina Panthers, including $25 million guaranteed . He credited the improved coaching staff in Jacksonville, particularly Anthony Campanile, for his development and success in 2025, noting their emphasis on technique and maximizing player talent .

Impact on Both Teams

The loss of Lloyd leaves a void at linebacker for the Jaguars, who will now gaze to fill the position through free agency or the NFL Draft. The team still has Foye Oluokun as a starting linebacker, but needs to identify a suitable partner for him . For the Panthers, Lloyd represents a significant addition to their defense, providing a dynamic and playmaking presence at linebacker.

Lloyd’s Career Highlights

• Second-team All-Pro (2025)
• Pro Bowl (2025)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2022)
• Consensus first-team All-American (2021)
• Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year (2021)
• 2× First-team All-Pac-12 (2020, 2021)