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Latest NFL news just gave Panthers GM Dan Morgan an easy way to make Ejiro Evero a happy man before free agency even opens

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Kole Noble | Last updated Feb 16, 2026 1:02 PM ET

Not long after the season ended, Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan put one position group, he heavily invested in, on blast for the production they recorded during the 2025-26 season.

“I think our pass rush, obviously to me and as everyone in the building would tell you, wasn’t up to par,” Morgan explained. “We had the second lowest pressure rate in the league this year. Obviously, that is not acceptable. If you’re not protecting the quarterback and you’re not affecting the quarterback, you’re not going to win many games in this league. Especially at a consistent level.”

To Morgan's credit, he tried. The Panthers heavily pursued defensive tackle Milton Williams in free agency and after missing out made sure to add multiple free agents, along with two high draft picks, to the defensive front. But, it wasn't enough and it's clear he aims to swing big this offseason.

The name everyone has connected the Panthers to is 2024 sack leader Trey Hendrickson, who's expected to have a robust free agent market. Another ideal candidate just hit the market the Panthers should consider that even has familiarity playing for defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.

Bradley Chubb released by the Miami Dolphins ahead of the start of free agency

The Miami Dolphins new regime just made their first big decision on Monday by releasing former two-time Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb, a move that gets the team off his $31 million cap hit.

Dolphins are releasing veteran edge Bradley Chubb, per @TomPelissero pic.twitter.com/s4Ylyn5zSW
— A to Z Sports (@AtoZSportsNFL) February 16, 2026

By being released, Chubb is now free to sign with any team before the start of free agency. Prior to joining the Dolphins in 2022, Chubb spent the first 4.5 years of his career with the Denver Broncos.

During that 2022 year, Evero was the defensive coordinator in Denver when Chubb was traded out to Miami. After making the move, Denver's pass rush plummeted in the second-half of the season. Prior to being traded, Chubb had 5.5 sacks and 20 QB hits in eight games playing in Evero's scheme.

Re-uniting four years later would be an ideal opportunity for both parties. The Panthers can add an impact veteran pass rusher at a discounted price compared to chasing after Hendrickson while giving Evero a player he's familiar working with. There's certainly worse options and on paper this looks like an ideal option for the Panthers to consider before free agency opens.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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