When the Carolina Panthers gave star defensive lineman Derrick Brown nearly a $100 million contract, the franchise knew what it was doing.
Now, the Panthers' official $96 million man is earning the praise of the team's defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.
"I think the message for Derrick is that Derrick is that great guy, and great guys who are talented players who work hard and do things the right way get rewarded," Evero said, via the Panthers' website. "And that's exactly what happened. When I think about going back to this time last year when we first got with Derrick, the development that he's had as a player and as a person."
Brown earned his contract after having a career year in 2023. He tallied 103 tackles, one interception and a Pro Bowl appearance, making him well worth the high price tag.
The $24 million per year average on Brown's extension is the fourth highest in the NFL for a defensive tackle. It trails the Kansas City Chiefs' Chris Jones, Las Vegas Raiders' Christian Wilkins and Baltimore Ravens' Justin Madubuike. All signed new contracts as free agents during the offseason.
Pro Football Focus handed Brown the fourth-best defensive grade among all interior defenders in the NFL in 2023. On that list, Brown joined players like Aaron Donald, Quinnen Williams and Dexter Lawrence.
His game is official.
Evero added: "You know, it's really interesting. Today, I was in a defensive line meeting room with coach (Todd) Wash and the D-linemen and Derrick is in there. And Wash will ask him a question about a technique and Derrick is in there coaching it up.
"And it's just amazing to see the growth that this young man has had. Obviously, the tape in the film and the production speaks for itself, but really, really happy for him, and he's obviously earned that extension."
The Panthers made no mistake when they gave Brown the extension he always deserved. Evero sees that.
More must-reads: