The Carolina Panthers had a busy offseason in an attempt to upgrade many elements of what was an unlikely playoff team in 2025. They found some intermittent success, but often struggled in of the most crucial areas of the sport.
This series is meant to spotlight the statistics that represent some of these major problem areas the Panthers have tried to resolve and provide a way to keep track of the changes or trends throughout the season. It will be the short and sweet numbers with a dash of context
each week; perhaps a deep dive or two once there’s enough of a sample to glean something worthwhile.
The Watchlist
Offense
Explosive Play Rate
Percentage of plays that qualify as an explosive play. Explosive plays being a carry of 10 or more yards or a pass attempt gaining 20 or more yards.
Brad Idzik has taken over the play-calling duties for the offense and the Panthers have made several investments to try and foster the opportunities that were far too inconsistent in 2025.
2025: 8.8% (23rd in NFL)
Pressure Rate Allowed
Percentage of dropbacks with a pressure or sack allowed
Heavy investments in the offensive line during the NFL Draft and Free Agency along with a handful of notable injuries to the 2025 incumbents make for an interesting stat to watch. Giving plays time to develop is crucial and can’t be done if the protection cannot hold up.
2025: 30.9%
3rd Down Conversion Rate
Rate of 3rd downs that converted to 1st downs.
Head Coach Dave Canales loves to talk about controlling the football and controlling the game. Hard to do if you are not able to keep the offense on the field.
2025: 36.5% (25th in NFL)
Defense
Zone Coverage Rate
Percentage of coverage snaps spent in a zone defense.
The Panthers defense under Ejiro Evero have some of the heaviest usage of zone coverage in the NFL the past few years. Will the changes of personel in all 3 levels of the defense shake the tendency or will it continue to hold true?
2025: 78% zone coverage
Pressure Rate
Percentage of pass rush opportunities that resulted in a sack or pressure.
The Panthers were at the bottom of the league in 2025 and desperately need to improve if they want to consistently stifle opposing offenses. Prized free agent acquisition Jaelen Phillips will need to have a huge impact.
2025: 10.1% (31st in NFL)
3rd Down Stop Rate
Rate of 3rd downs allowed to be converted into 1st downs.
It’s not ideal if your offense can’t stay on the field and your defense can’t get off it. This stat will focus on the latter and show just how capable the defense is when it matters most.
2025: 48.1% (32nd in NFL)
BONUS Stat of the Week
This one will change on a weekly basis. Something interesting or noteworthy; could be specific to the most recent match-up or leaguewide ranking that stands out.
Hope you enjoy following along and if you’ve got your own stats you’ll be keeping an eye on, feel free to drop them in the comments below.
