Panthers Unlikely To Pursue CBs Jaire Alexander, Jalen Ramsey

Carolina is not positioned to make a run at Alexander or Ramsey, Joe Person of The Athletic writes (subscription required). He adds a defensive back addition of some kind could be in store before training camp begins next month, and with over $18MM in cap space the team could certainly afford a free agent pickup. As expected, though, other options will be on the Panthers’ radar.

Alexander was the subject of trade talks at multiple points this offseason, and once it became clear no restructure agreement would be reached the Packers moved forward with a release. Trading for the two-time Pro Bowler would have required taking on the remainder of his contract – a tall order given Alexander’s injury history – but numerous suitors are interested now that doing so is no longer necessary. The Bills were among the teams which discussed a trade, although given their current cap situation a free agent deal could be unrealistic at this point.

It has long been known Ramsey is available via trade given the mutual decision made with the Dolphins to move on. Finances are key in his situation given the roughly $21MM in guaranteed salary owed for 2025. Reaching agreement with Miami will no doubt depend largely on how much of that figure the team will retain to facilitate a trade. Ramsey, 30, is a candidate to return to the Rams (a team which, by contrast, does not appear to be a prime suitor for Alexander).

As Person notes, a depth addition at the cornerback spot would be welcomed given the options currently on hand at the position. At safety, meanwhile, a move is also worth watching for. Both Julian Blackmon and Marcus Williams have taken part in free agent visits this offseason, and each veteran is still unsigned at this point. Carolina could circle back to one of those two of look into another free agent such as Justin Simmons based on his familiarity with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.

Making a move in the secondary will be welcomed on a defense which ranked 23rd against the pass last season. In the case of Alexander and Ramsey, however, Carolina should not be considered a likely destination.